The Random Acts of Kindness Challenge on Instagram, created by Religious and Spiritual Life, is a fun way to inspire the University of the Pacific community to think through the little—and big—ways people can make a difference.

Religious and Spiritual Life each day posts a #KindActsRSL challenge with two options on its Instagram account (@Pacfiic_RS_Life). If you’ve missed any of them, they are also added under its Instagram highlights section.The goal is to spread goodwill and kindness as Pacific prepares for the start of distance learning on Aug. 24. 

“#KindActsRSL is a fun opportunity to take your mind off the current world situation by finding ways to safely connect with and help others,” said Rebecca Palmer ’21. 

“I look forward to completing these quick and simple challenges that could brighten someone's day!” added Kaelani Valdez ’21. “Kindness is a gift that goes a long way. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).” 

“Our hope is that while scrolling through social media news feeds, folks will see the posts and be moved to help someone,” said Laura Steed, director of Religious and Spiritual Life and the university’s multi-faith chaplain. “Some challenges involve writing a note or expressing gratitude, like the challenge Kaelani completed, where she gave a positive review for a local business. Other challenges involve giving of one’s time or resources to help and/or support others, such as the challenge Rebecca completed, where she donated to a fundraiser to support a local teacher.”

The challenge started in late July and will end on the first day of class for the Stockton Campus (Aug. 24). “We hope that this challenge encourages our Instagram followers to make the most of their remaining days of summer—that they may be a blessing to others, and be blessed while doing so,” Steed said.