At Sonny’s, serving kindness is just as important as serving BBQ. So, when Random Acts of Kindness Week rolled around, we fired up the smokers and set out to celebrate the best way we know how—by surprising some of the most deserving students in our communities with a #RandomActofBBQ.
Throughout the week, our Kindness Crew traveled to different schools, surprising students who go above and beyond to spread kindness, lift others up, and make their classrooms a better place. Each of these students was nominated by their teachers for their selflessness, positivity, and generosity. Here’s a look at the incredible students we had the honor of celebrating this year in front of their classmates and families.
Haydin: A Kindness Champion from the Start
We joined Jessica, our Kindness Crew member in Jacksonville, in stopping by Charles E. Bennett Elementary School to surprise Haydin, a sweet and selfless kindergartener, with a Random Act of BBQ. Haydin’s teacher couldn’t say enough great things about her, sharing that kindness is just in her DNA. She never seeks attention or recognition. She simply loves making others feel special.
She goes out of her way to welcome new classmates. When a new student joined their class and seemed a little shy, Haydin stepped up in the most thoughtful way. She created personalized note cards to help him understand the class schedule and guided him through the new routine, ensuring he felt comfortable and included.
We had an absolute blast celebrating Haydin, surprising her classroom with BBQ, and presenting her with a certificate, gifts, and all her favorite snacks. And as if the day couldn’t get any sweeter, we found out her birthday was just the day before, so the timing was perfect for an extra-special celebration.
Lilia: A Positive Light in Every Room
We had another amazing RABBQ with Kennon, a Kindness Crew member in Orlando, at Sunshine Elementary School. This time, we got to surprise Lilia, a 5th grader, in front of her entire class and her proud parents for her kind heart and positive attitude.
Lilia consistently goes out of her way to help classmates who are struggling, keeps a positive attitude no matter the challenge, and contributes thoughtfully to discussions. Her kindness helps create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Not only does she radiate positivity, but she’s also an exceptional student. Her teacher told us she never has to worry about Lilia because she’s always hardworking, helpful, and dedicated. She even joked that she was sure Lilia got a 100% on that day’s math test because she had been asking so many great questions while studying.
Her parents were so proud of her and incredibly appreciative that Sonny’s took the time to recognize their daughter.
Stacey: A Heart as Big as Her Smile
We had the honor of helping Claudia, a Kindness Crew member in Apopka, with a RABBQ at Lovell Elementary School, where we got to celebrate Stacey, a 3rd grader with a heart as big as her smile.
Stacey is the kind of person who brightens every room she walks into. Whether she’s greeting friends with a warm hug, making new classmates feel welcome, or offering a helping hand, she goes out of her way to spread kindness. Her teachers shared how she genuinely makes others feel special and valued every single day.
It was a joy to surprise Stacey in front of her classmates and mom and recognize her for the positivity she brings to those around her. We got to share some BBQ, celebrate her kindness, and see firsthand the impact she has on her classmates.
A Week Full of Smiles, BBQ, and Kindness
Random Acts of Kindness Week gave us the perfect opportunity to celebrate students who are making the world a better place, one kind gesture at a time. From warm hugs to thoughtful notes and selfless support, Stacey, Lilia, and Haydin remind us that small acts of kindness can have a huge impact. If you know anyone who you think is deserving of a Random Act of BBQ, nominate them today.
