Hogs Care Week, a random act of kindness initiative, kicked off with a launch party on Feb. 13 in the Verizon Ballroom inside the Arkansas Union. Students and staff gathered to share ideas for participating in Hogs Care and enjoyed chants led by the Razorback Pom Squad. Even the beloved baseball mascot, Ribby, joined in the festivities.
The Young Alumni Board, UA Division of Student Affairs and Razorback Athletics Department will present Hogs Care week Feb 25-March 2 to “honor the University of Arkansas through service and acts of kindness,” said Heath Bowman, associate director for regional programs at the Arkansas Alumni Association.
At the launch party, “giving back” stations encouraged students to get involved. Stations were dedicated to making Valentine’s Day cards for the elderly and thank you cards for military personnel. Participants wrote acts of kindness ideas on a banner, including, “taping quarters to a vending machine” and “paying for the person’s food behind me in the cafeteria.”
“It’s a really good event that highlights honoring the university through random acts of kindness and service events,” said Holly Hilliard, public relations and marketing director for the UA Volunteer Action Center. “It’s not a big commitment so it’s something a lot of people can do. I hope people feel compelled to pass on the kindness.”
Social media will play a big role in Hogs Care Week. After engaging in a service project or act of kindness, whether it is giving a coat to someone in need or buying lunch for your neighbor, participants are encouraged to share it by using the hashtag #HogsCare on Twitter or Instagram, posting a photo to the Helping Like a Hog Facebook page or posting a video on YouTube. Pictures and descriptions will be posted on designated social media outlets at www.HogsCare.com.
“Anyone can participate in Hogs Care Week – students, alumni and friends – no matter where you live,” Bowman said. “When you participate, we encourage you to help spread the word and inspire others by sharing your Hogs Care Week story through social media.”
“It’s a great way to get the community involved,” Razorback Pom member, Sydney Scholten said. Scholten is already planning ways she can get involved with Hogs Care.
“If the bus is full and an elderly person needs a seat, I’ll gladly give up mine,” she said.
Keep up with how the hogs are giving back by visiting www.HogsCare.com.
