Spread kindness on Random Acts of Kindness Day

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February 2024


Making Kindness the Norm

Sometimes all it takes is to know that someone is thinking about you to turn the day from meh to yeah!

But did you know that acts of kindness enhance both mental and physical health? That is one reason the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation commemorates Random Acts of Kindness Day on February 17. This observance celebrates the ways we make a real difference in others’ lives and by doing so, improve our own lives. The site suggests concrete, simple ways to make kindness a part of everyday life.

Take a Moment to Reach Out and Connect with a Veteran

Take a moment to reach out and connect with a Veteran.

For Veterans, loss of community and connections after transition to civilian life can lead to isolation. Veterans who feel lonely may be at increased risk for suicide. Yet, a simple phone call can make a huge difference. The American Legion created the Buddy Check program to help keep Veterans connected. Buddy Checks encourage social connection and connection to helpful resources.

Pledge to reach out and check on a Veteran buddy today – every act of kindness can make a difference! Whether it’s been a week, a month, or even years since you’ve talked, we encourage you to connect or reconnect with your Veteran friends.

It's as Simple as a Phone Call

Be a Buddy! Take the Pledge to Check in with 10 Vets

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs partners with American Legion in the Veterans Buddy Check program. The aim is to increase important peer connections and share information about accessing support.

Visit Veteran Buddy Checks to find actionable ways to get started!

Veteran Buddy Check week is officially October 20-24, 2025, but we challenge you to REACH OUT throughout the year, and to spread kindness from now until then.

Research Spotlight: Serving Veterans Better through Caring Contacts

Adapting Caring Contacts for Veterans in a Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Department: Results From a Type 2 Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Pilot Study

Read the publication here.

Serving Veterans Better through Caring Contacts