Brooklyn Center Awards “Random Acts of Kindness” Recognition to Three Community Members
A long-standing tradition in Brooklyn Center is shining the spotlight on volunteer service by three community members.
The Random Acts of Kindness award has been around since 1977.
And just like previous years, this year’s recipients are making a positive difference.
Jill Dalton and Jack MacMillian Recognized for Park Clean-up Efforts
On most days, you can find Jill Dalton and her partner Jack MacMillian walking their two dogs near Firehouse park in Brooklyn Center, but their walks in the park aren’t just for exercise.
As stewards of the park, the couple picks up about a grocery bag full of trash each time they go out.
“We pick up all along. Always carry our little bags with us,” said Dalton. “We concentrate mostly on recyclables, not the itty, bitty pieces of paper.”
For their efforts, they were recognized by the City of Brooklyn Center for the Random Acts of Kindness award.
Dalton appreciates the recognition and hopes it brings attention to keeping parks litter-free.
“We have a wonderful park system here in Brooklyn Center, that we are very proud of, but there’s not much to be proud of if there’s litter all over the place,” said Dalton.
Jakarta Turner Recognized for Collaboration between City and Schools
Along with Jill and Jack, Jakarta Turner was also awarded for her selfless acts of service.
“This means a lot for me,” said Turner. “I’m very grateful.”
The Community Education Manager was recognized for nurturing a partnership between Brooklyn Center Community Schools and the city.
Jakarta Turner talks about what it means to her be selected for the Random Acts of Kindness award.
“We will serve our community much better when working together, working united,” said Turner.
She helps ensure a strong collaboration between the district and city through promoting enrichment programs together and arranging space to hold them, like the health fair last summer at Brooklyn Center Middle/High School.
“It is a very large event that the city puts on,” said Turner. “We were really fortunate as a school district to host that event on our grounds.”
The Radom Acts of Kindness recipients will be recognized by the Brooklyn Center City Council at a council meeting and will be honored at a reception.
