PRESS RELEASE: APRIL 23, 2025

SJR State’s Random Acts of Kindness keeps students on track

“Be the reason someone gets through the day”

When a family member was diagnosed with cancer, Brandall Kearse’s household experienced a devastating impact, including an overwhelming financial setback. He even considered taking a semester off from college.

Kearse said the money to cover the cost of textbooks and other school expenses were gone, until he reached out to his campus ombudsman and learned about the Foundation’s new emergency-need stipend program - “Random Acts of Kindness.” Thanks to generous donors, the program at St. Johns River State College can offer critical support for students facing financial emergencies.

“I didn’t have to worry about delaying my education. The program allowed me to get my textbooks and meet other financial obligations,” Kearse said. “I am still on track to graduate this semester, thanks to the amazing donors who give to this fund.”

According to SJR State Foundation Director JoLynn Carter, students who become sidetracked with unexpected life challenges or hardships are often at risk of losing momentum toward their degree, or worse – dropping out.

“Random Acts of Kindness is one of the many ways the Foundation Office is here to serve students and help them stay focused on their education,” Carter said. “Something as simple as a pair of shoes for nursing clinicals, car repairs, or covering medical emergencies can make or break a semester for a student.”

Kearse advises anyone experiencing sudden hardships to speak up. “If it weren’t for me being willing to be vulnerable and open up, I would not be able to be here,” Kearse said. “If you’re going through a hard time, I advise you to just say something. SJR State is here to help. They are here to listen and help you get through.”

Carter advises anyone who wants to make a positive impact to donate.

“Be the reason someone gets through the day,” Carter said. “Donations to the Random Acts of Kindness Fund allows us to step in quickly and compassionately when students need it most. Every dollar goes directly to helping students stay focused on their education, even in the face of life’s challenges.”

In addition to the RAK and scholarships, SJR State also supports students with food insecurities with the Viking Exchange. Located on the college’s three campuses, the Exchange provides perishable and non-perishable food, hygiene products, clothing, and school supplies to students in need. Donations are collected year-round and make a direct impact on students striving to overcome obstacles and stay on track toward achieving their goals.

“The word is spreading about the numerous ways to donate,” Carter said, noting recent donations of microwaves and a refrigerator, as well as a community partnerships that provide food and clothing.

Fundraisers are another way to engage the community, including SJR State’s first trivia fundraiser on Saturday, April 26, from 1:00 – 4:00 pm.

Tables/teams are still available for this friendly competition on the Palatka Campus. Whether you're a trivia pro or you’re just in it for the laughs, gather your crew and sign up today. Register now at: https://www.sjrstate.edu/fdevents.

More information is available on the SJR State Foundation webpage.