The (309) area code stretches from Dewitt to Woodford counties, with 18 other counties in-between, including McDonough County, covering an astounding 9,486 square miles. And on March 9 (or 3-09), a Western Illinois University academic advisor wants to get the people in the (309) range – and beyond – into the habit of paying it forward.
Although Random Acts of Kindness Week happens every year on Feb. 17, Macomb Mayor Michael Inman said 309 Day is a great way for citizens to be good neighbors to each other.
"As 309 Day approaches, I want to remind everyone to go the extra mile to be kind to someone," Inman said. "In past years, March 9 has been an opportunity for the community to engage and do good works throughout the community."
This "regional holiday" was a brainstorm of WIU academic advisor Tammie Leigh Brown-Edwards to get the residents of her community, and county, to think of small ways they can make a difference.
"In Macomb, our community has gone above and beyond on 309 Day. The schools in our district have created activities for their students, university students have participated in community service projects and residents have gone above and beyond to make a difference in our city," Brown-Edwards said.
Sally Vigezzi, Macomb Police Department's Community Service, Diversity and Recruitment officer, works with people in the community who need a little extra help. In her role, she provides services ranging from connecting people to resources and housing options to finding solutions and providing meals.
"We have more homeless people in the community than most people are aware. Most people don't think we have homeless people but we do, you just don't see it all the time," Vigezzi said. "One way of spreading kindness is to purchase gift cards for food, even in small increments, because people always need food and that would be very helpful."
Vigezzi encourages anyone wanting to donate gift cards to help those in crisis can drop off contributions at the Macomb Police Department.
Kindness is an essential part in caring for others, says Roger Pavey, executive director of the Western Illinois Regional Council.
"You never know what trauma another person might have experienced. Healing can only happen when we hear and see each other at our best," Pavey said. "309 Day is an opportunity to show each other a kindness that values each person, acknowledging their worth and beauty."
Brown-Edwards agrees.
"Being kind can make the difference in someone's life when they need it the most. A gesture doesn't have to be grand and it doesn't even have to be public," she said. "Aesop said it best, 'No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.'"
On March 9, use the hashtag #Iam309, and post photos on social media of your activities, interactions, thoughts or ideas.
Categories: Illinois, General