Savannah:
My mom, the kindest person I know, raised me to be kind because it’s the right thing to do, not in hope of a reward. Being part of Angel Wings and Legacy Marketplace allowed me to use my skills and talents to give back to the community and showed me joy in every act of kindness, big or small. While at college, I volunteer twice a week at the local elementary school. I felt unhelpful when I first started: my social anxiety stopped me from connecting with the teachers and students, I felt unsuited to the tasks assigned to me, and there were so many volunteers that no one ever remembered who I was. Even so, I kept going because I knew it was a kind thing to do. Over time, I began to feel more comfortable, found tasks well-suited to my strengths, and formed connections with the teachers I work with. Now, volunteering is my favorite part of the week, and I always look forward to going. Recently, I was present during the class Valentine’s Day party, where one student had saved a valentine to give to me. It was a small act, yet it meant so much to me to feel like part of the community, even if all I do is grade papers twice a week. Showing kindness will always be important to me, and being able to give back, just like my mom taught me to, brings me immense joy.
Kenna:
When I think of all the ways the Angel Wings Foundation has influenced my character, the Hope Bag tradition stands out as one of the most significant. During the annual Hope Day Events, we all had the opportunity to put together bags containing toiletries and essential items, with the intention of giving them out to community members in need. I remember my mom and I used to stop as much as possible and give Hope Bags to anyone we saw asking for support. To this day, we keep food and grocery gift cards in our cars to hand out, keeping the tradition alive! This world needs more compassion, and not just for those you’re close to, but for strangers as well. I’m so grateful to AWF for setting an example of how to be a person devoted to giving!
Maddie:
I am a proud former marketplace youth member and now an RN in a level 1 trauma ICU. I’ve witnessed both the heartbreak of unexpected loss and the profound impact of small, tangible gestures on grieving families. Offering a lock of hair or a patient’s last heart rhythm strip serves as a deeply personal keepsake, reminding us nurses of our true purpose—providing not just medical care, but comfort, dignity, and compassion. Growing up with a heart for service, nurtured by the Angel Wings Foundation, taught me that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact. These gestures help families and also support us as caregivers, offering a sense of connection when words fall short. Let’s remember the importance of being present, showing empathy, and offering small tokens of our care. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply be kind and show we care.
Kaylee H:
This week, I was looking in our new pantry which had all of our food all over the floor and shoved in the cabinet. My mom had asked me earlier in the week if I could help her organize it. We hadn’t gotten to organizing it yet, so I decided to sit down by myself and try to get started. Right as I got started my sister, Emily came in to start helping me. I was so thankful for her help. I had so much fun doing this task with her and getting to hang out with her. Our parents were super thankful that we took time out of our evening to organize the pantry. It felt super good doing this and reminded my sister and I how good it feels to do things for others. I love how Angel Wings has taught me the importance of showing kindness and giving back for others. Angel Wings has taught me to remember in my everyday life to do these things.
Ava:
Growing up around so many great role models including; my parents, Holly, and my best friend Cooper the concept of “random acts of kindness” has never been something I intentionally have to think about or set out to do. But rather just a normal part of my day that I don’t think twice about doing, whether it is holding the door/elevator for someone or just simply giving a smile at a stranger and saying hello. So it was no surprise one gloomy morning when I was walking to class as I passed a man unloading boxes outside my dorm and they fell over that my immediate instinct led me to walk over and help him pick up the boxes. The man turned to me smiled giving his thanks and telling me, “you really didn’t have to do that” I then replied with, “It’s no problem, I wanted to”. I believe that it does not take anything to be a good person, focusing on spreading more light/happiness in the world. It shouldn’t have to take a prize or special recognition to do something for the betterment of others or yourself, the good will return to you eventually. I thank Holly for asking me to participate in her RAK for this month and being such a positive light bringing awareness to spreading more kindness.
Nicholas:
Moving to a new state for college was overwhelming and stressful. Adjusting to dorm life and living with strangers was tough. One day, I forgot my laundry in the dryer, and when I rushed back, feeling frustrated, I found my clothes neatly folded with a sticky note that said, “God Bless.” This small act had a huge impact on me, reminding me of the power of little gestures!
Thanks to the Hope Day Marketplace, I’m now pursuing marketing in college. It gave me confidence and exposure to sales and product development. Growing up, seeing how the community came together through Angel Wings inspired me to believe in making a difference. I’m grateful for the experience and encourage everyone to get involved and see the potential in helping others.
Boey:
Boey is a true leader in action! From a young age, she has always had a heart for making a difference. Now, at just 16 years old she has taken the initiative to organize, plan and host a fundraiser for Angel Wings Foundation. Boey raised an INCREDIBLE $5000 to support our nonprofit and give back to her community! Her passion, drive and commitment to helping others inspires us all! Please join us in celebrating this remarkable person! “I was inspired to organize this fundraiser for the Angel Wings Foundation because I admire the hope and support they provide to those in need. I feel very fortunate to be in a position where I can give back, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause within my community!”-Boey