The Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Club at St. Mary’s Catholic Secondary School continues to shine bright, spreading joy and compassion across our community. On Friday, March 28, 2025, 50 enthusiastic students took their mission of kindness to Kitchener’s Fairview Park Mall — and they made a beautiful impact.

Armed with roses, sweet treats, and heartfelt tags that read “You’ve been touched by a random act of kindness — pass it on,” students approached shoppers, staff, and passersby with one simple goal: to brighten someone’s day.

And brighten they did — over 800 people were surprised with a smile, a treat, and a moment of connection. Many recipients shared how much they needed that small gesture, reminding us all how powerful kindness can be.

“Our hope is to brighten the day of members of our community, while encouraging others to pass on kindness,” said teacher and club leader Shawna Kropf. “We are hoping it creates a little kindness movement in our region, and the students are very excited about it.”

The success of this initiative is a testament to the compassionate leadership of teachers Shawna Kropf, Karen Drummond, Katarina Luke, and Jessica Srouji. Bright lights in both the St. Mary’s and WCDSB communities, they continue to inspire a new generation of changemakers.
To the students of the RAK Club and to the educators who lead it — thank you. You’re showing us that when kindness is shared, it multiplies. And right now, the world could use more of it.

