It feels good to give back. As Cambrian College professor and professional life coach, Irene Nizerro told listeners on CBC’s Up North earlier this month, committing intentional and random acts of kindness lowers stress.
Across the College, random acts of kindness happen every day. This month, there were also many intentional acts that have made a difference.
Cards of Support a welcome surprise
In December, members of the Cambrian community created and distributed more than 500 “cards of support” inscribed with handwritten notes to students. The idea was to remind students that they’re not alone as they move through challenging times. The cards were hand-delivered before and during the fall semester’s final exams, and many students expressed their appreciation for this thoughtful yet unexpected gift. It’s become a Cambrian tradition, and each year students are pleasantly surprised when they receive a card with supportive sentiments inked inside.
"Elves" spread holiday cheer
In that same spirit, a contingent of “elves” visited the Children’s Treatment Centre to brighten the days of children and families at the Centre. Hats off to Cambrian’s Student Success Coordinator Chantale Roy, as well as FGEN’s Natalie Guindon and SAC President Rhaili Champaigne for spreading some cheer!
The “elves” also visited Cambrian’s Espanola and Little Current campuses to bring stress-busting supports to students, including bags of fresh produce and spices to make a wholesome meal, along with other small gifts.
Handbags of Hope
Last, but not least, professor Teena Rowe from Cambrian’s Early Childhood Education program organized the Handbags of Hope initiative to support women who rely on a local shelter and/or food bank. Thanks to this initiative, 52 gently used purses filled with new personal care items will be distributed to women in need by YWCA Genevra House and the Sudbury Food Bank.
Actions like these help lower stress and boost positivity – for the giver and the receiver. Think of ways that you can help someone in need... It could be by donating blood (the need is great at this time of year), helping a neighbour with snow shovelling, making donations, inviting a guest to share a meal, or randomly offering a little help when the opportunity presents itself. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.
