“The Snowball Effect typically runs campaigns every December in support of our local food banks and other charities. The idea is that you give what you can, then throw your “snowballs” to others – challenging them to do the same. With the chaos of COVID-19, they launched a spring snowstorm: “In these trying times we recognize and understand that our partners at the food banks could use our help, demands are higher than ever and the supply is diminishing. The Lethbridge Food Bank, the Interfaith Food Bank Society of Lethbridge, and the humans in our community need us more than ever. Our goal is to raise $10,000 between April 1-30th to help advance the food banks buying power for food and items needed by our community members.”
With the support of community donations, merchandise sales, and matching funds from Lethbridge Toyota and ATB Financial, we’d like to congratulate The Snowball Effect on raising $20,000 for our local food banks this month! Links are still open to donate!
How do you show kindness to yourself?
Tevi: I show kindness to myself by allowing myself the space to do nothing and not feeling guilty about it. I am very engaged with others most of the day and I need time to myself to recharge my batteries, whether it’s mindless tv, online shopping, a socially distant walk with a friend I allow myself to go there to get what I need for my holistic health.
Brandi: Positive self talk at all times, recognizing my inner critic & kicking her ass to the curb. I also laugh at my own jokes (I really do think I am hilarious). And baths. Lots of baths.
Jennifer: Why did it take me so long to think of an answer to this question? I like to work really hard so I can play hard. The downtime is always appreciated and much needed after a busy work week. I also love snacks, ha ha ha. Is it weird that eating yummy food is a way I show kindness to myself?
Karrisa: I get quiet and remind myself to be gentle. Between leading a team at work and being a mom of boys, I need downtime every day for my own sanity. Before COVID, I regularly scheduled vitamin IV’s, counseling, and coffee dates. Kindness right now looks more like soft clothes, hot baths, and large glasses of wine.
How do you show kindness to others?
Tevi: I show kindness to others by really trying to show up in a way that is meaningful to them. Whether its being present with my kids, or understanding the needs of the community I think its really important to understand the root cause and core of the needs of those you are spending your time with. I also love simple random acts of kindness, an offside mom joke, a random smile, paying for the person’s coffee behind me, there are so many ways to show up kind!
Brandi: Being open, present, listening, respecting & honoring others for who they are. When you really pay attention, really listen, hold space, ’read between the lines’ and respond with both words & actions that make others feel comfortable & supported, that’s showing kindness. And that is my ultimate goal with every interaction I have.
Jennifer: I love to give gifts. They don’t have to be big gifts, just small little acts of kindness to show my appreciation. Also, something as small as a smile can brighten someone’s day. It sounds cliche but it is true. I also love to give compliments to people. If you notice something beautiful about someone else, tell them!
Karissa: Presence, empathy, and thoughtfulness. I’ve found that kindness is the least costly and most powerful agent for change. Ultimately, what every human being wants to know is the same: Do you see me? Do you hear me? Do I matter?
How do you show kindness to your community?
Tevi: I feel lucky to live in such a kind and compassionate city such as Lethbridge. I love to again show up in ways that are meaningful to our community, whether it’s picking up litter on a walk or rallying the community to donate to those in need, a little goes a long way!
Brandi: By being a part of it. Showing up. That’s all it takes! So often people think they need to have something specific to contribute or overthink giving back or how to be kind in their community. The simple act of saying yes, I want to be a part of this, is in my opinion, the ultimate act of showing your community kindness.
Jennifer: I love to help people in need- the food banks, homeless people on the street, adopting a family at Christmas, etc. These are all really small in the grand scheme of things but every little bit helps.
Karissa: As a young girl, I witnessed my parents give their time, money, and hearts to our small farming community and I strive to live up to their example. By giving back to the community, we are really showing love to ourselves. I try to find something I’m passionate about and then use that passion for a greater purpose.”