Be Kind a Sign of the Times

Be Kind a Sign of the Times

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

Be Kind.

Two simple words, but two words that created a lot of impact in several communities throughout Beaver County during Pink Shirt Day on February 24 and throughout the “Choose Kindness colouring project.

Jonelle Dunkley, Holden Programmer for Viking/Beaver County Family & Community Support Services, said both were successful initiatives designed to raise awareness of bullying prevention.

“Our amazing Community Programmer in Viking, Rachel Mayko, was kind enough to cut and paint all of the signs for us to give out to community members in our service area for free!” Dunkley said they tried to come up with a Pink Shirt Day activity that was community based and something residents could take home with them to brighten up their space.

The sign was one of several items in gift bags that were put out on a table outside of the Village office in Holden for folks to pick up during the day. “We had adult and family bags available which included colouring activities, resource materials, and fun items donated to us like stress balls, chip clips and coasters from partnerships throughout Beaver County who support what ARISE is doing for our communities.”

Jonelle Dunkley, Holden Programmer with Viking/Beaver County FCSS.

(Viking/Beaver County FCSS/Submitted Photo)

She explained that, “The Beaver County ARISE community coalition was created to encourage communities within all of Beaver County to create mentally healthy environments through advocacy, education and awareness about substance use, addictions and mental wellness.”

They also had a Kindness tree that was decorated with the signs and heart shaped cut outs with inspirational messages for people to see in the Village office. As far as the “Choose Kindness” colouring project, they encouraged residents to stop by the office to pick up the colouring sheet.

The “Be Kind” table outside of the Village office in Holden.

(Viking/Beaver County FCSS/Submitted Photo)

“We asked that they take their colouring page home, colour it, and then place it in their window to help brighten up the community during these somewhat duller days of winter. It was a lot of fun to see the windows of Holden brightened up with all the artistic flair that the residents had to offer up.” In Viking, Dunkley said the “Be Kind” signs were advertised as being available on social media and through its interagency group as well as provide anyone who came into the office and wanted one with a sign. The Viking/Beaver County FCSS service area consists of Kinsella, Viking, Bruce and Holden.