The week of March 9th – 15th, 2026 is the 30th Annual Violence Awareness & Random Acts of Kindness Week.
The purpose of this week is to promote positive energy to counteract the negative effects of senseless violence
in our society. “Although we dedicate this week to acts of kindness, kindness is something that should happen
every day in our lives. We need to welcome it, acknowledge it and share the kindness with others, says Chris
Macdonald co–chair of the committee. “I would like to thank the greater Quinte, Hastings and Prince Edward
County communities for the support you have shown and for embracing our ideology that kindness is
contagious and to please pass it on.”
The purpose of this week is to promote positive energy to counteract the negative effects of senseless violence
in our society. “Although we dedicate this week to acts of kindness, kindness is something that should happen
every day in our lives. We need to welcome it, acknowledge it and share the kindness with others, says Chris
Macdonald co–chair of the committee. “I would like to thank the greater Quinte, Hastings and Prince Edward
County communities for the support you have shown and for embracing our ideology that kindness is
contagious and to please pass it on.”
Local area elementary school students have been invited to participate in our colouring and poster contests.
Winning entries will be on display at Quinte Mall. Elementary School winners will receive a Certificate of
Achievement, a plaque and a Quinte Mall gift card in recognition of their accomplishments.
High Schools are also invited to nominate a Student as their Kindness Citizen, a draw will be held at the
conclusion of the week to choose the overall winner who will receive a lap top computer courtesy of Quinte
Mall and a printer from the VARAK Program. In addition, 2 other High School Students will each receive a
Bursary from the VARAK Program.
Below is the schedule of activities for the 30th Annual Violence Awareness and Random Acts of Kindness
Program from March 9th to the 15th.
• Monday March 9th – Community Candlelight Vigil
Please take a moment to light a candle in the comfort of your home and observe a Minute of Silence at
7:00 p.m. in remembrance of all victims of violence. We are sending love and light to the victims and
families from Tumbler Ridge.
Please take a moment to light a candle in the comfort of your home and observe a Minute of Silence at
7:00 p.m. in remembrance of all victims of violence. We are sending love and light to the victims and
families from Tumbler Ridge.
• Tuesday March 10th – Kindness when you least expect it!
On Tues. and throughout the week Kindness Crews will be passing on acts of kindness and
appreciation. Areas targeted this year by the Kindness Crews include, Belleville, Trenton, Madoc,
Marmora, Wellington, Bloomfield, Picton, Consecon, Frankford and Stirling. Chris Macdonald also
stressed; “if you receive an act of kindness, please pass the kindness on, remember kindness is
contagious!” Special thanks to Lactalis Canada (Black Diamond) and Hawkins Cheezies for their
generous donations to our Kindness Crews.
• Wednesday March 11th – Blue Ribbon of Hope Day
Everyone is encouraged to prominently display and wear their Blue Ribbons of hope and if you do not
have one, please wear blue to symbolize kindness. Blue Ribbon donation boxes are available at
various locations throughout Quinte Mall and in the greater Quinte and Prince Edward County
Communities.
• Thursday March 12th – Thankful Thursday
Take some time out of your day to text, message or call and thank someone who has touched your life
with their kindness.
• Friday March 13th – Friendly Friday
Surprise a family member, friend or neighbour with an inspirational note, flowers, an email, a card or
some other act of kindness to let them know how much you appreciate them.
• Saturday March 14th – Selection of Kindness Citizen of the Year Award
Nominate someone who has touched you by their kindness. Local Newspaper Ballots can be submitted
to Quinte Mall Guest Services or emailed to qteservice@primarisreit.com. Online ballots are available
at www.varak.ca This award is sponsored by Quinte Mall and Charm Diamond Centres. Deadline for
nominations must is Friday March 13th, 2026. The Kindness Citizen of the Year will have their name
displayed on the digital signs throughout Quinte Mall and will also receive an award and gifts in
recognition of their kindness.
• Sunday March 15th – Random Acts of Kindness Day
Any act of kindness, no matter how small, can have the greatest impact and proves that angels truly
are among us.
The VARAK program is offered to 59 area elementary schools and 14 high schools and is made possible by
the overwhelming generosity and support of service clubs, local businesses and other organizations within the
greater Quinte community.
Remember the only thing better than receiving an act of kindness, is giving one!
