Random Acts, Inc.

I am so humbled by the work that Natassa and Denise do for these amazing causes. Thank you for giving your time and hearts to this.

They do so much for the schools. I have been donating since they started

For many years I have donated to Random Acts, and even had the chance to be apart of events like E4K and AMOK. Wonderful events meant to pour love and kindness into communities locally and globally. I have also participated in GISHWHES for 3 years, which is one the RA's largest fund raising events and had the best time being creative, spontaneous and doing weird things for the sake of kindness and art. I encourage anyone to take a look at this amazing charity and all the good they do and have done (Free High School in Nicaragua and the Orphanage in Haiti) and join in with either donations, volunteering, or joining in with events.

I'm (probably?) quite unfortunate that i never had any experience with Random Acts first hand, but i had donated several times, both directly to Random Acts' website or through various campaign Misha had held.

i had followed Random Acts' works through social media, and what they had done was spectacularly beautiful. They brought happiness to many people around the world, and that's what the world currently need. people doing kindness to each other.

thank you Random Acts for everything that you've done, and please keep on spreading kindness and happiness xx

I didn't know much about Random Acts until quite recently, and while other charities make me doubt what they are really doing and barely seeing any progress with all the large donations made, Random Acts has to be one of the very few that I feel is genuine and truthful. Not only does this charity aim to do so much good in the world, it is also very close to its supporters and constantly provides updates on what is happening right now and what they've done (e.g. Nicaragua). Random Acts is one of those aspects in life where you find hope in humanity.

This charity is amazing! Just recently they helped build a free high school for an impoverished area of Nicaragua. This school gives these students the chance to be able to reach a higher education that would otherwise be unattainable to them. I love this charity with all my heart.

I've been a supporter of Random Acts for many years, having both raised money for their projects and promoting them via social media. During their AMOK (Annual Melee of Kindness) I became a hands on volunteer for the first time. I attended an event in Waianae, Hawaii where we painted the interior of a homeless shelter for Vets. We partnered with local groups and the Wounded Warrior Project to accomplish the task. Over 60 people showed up. It was amazing to be able to finally support the org hands on instead of just through promotion or donation. I hope we have more events out here.

I'm also looking forward to their You Are Not Alone project, where they'll be partnering with the IMAlive crisis support network to help those in the middle of a crisis situation. This project, as well as the one I participated in during AMOK, highlight how amazing this org is when it comes to working with established groups. They take groups with knowledge and know how about certain charitable efforts, rally the Random Acts supporters, and make amazing things happen.

I had the pleasure of participating once again in the Annual Melee of Kindness on March 5-6, and it was everything I love about Random Acts. Thousands of people across the globe spent their weekend doing small acts of kindness in their local community, with the organization offering suggestions, tips, and support for the months leading up to the event.

Random Acts endeavors to show that charity doesn't have to be stodgy, and kindness isn't something only those with the financial means to spare can spread. In my community we collected coloring books and crayons, easy paper crafts, word searches, and books for the local children's hospital. Friends in our group hand-made small toys for the children, and everyone in my family (even my own young children) wrote get well cards for all of the children. After, we got the wishlist for the local no-kill animal shelters and brought them a cart full of food, toys, treats and cleaning supplies. We dropped a load of donated books off for our local 'Little Free Library,' and we gave a load of donated toys to the battered women and children shelter.

It was a fun weekend, and a productive one: it brought friends together in a way to give back to the community, and brought the online Random Acts supporters together online swapping stories on everyday ways to give back.

Every month Random Acts has a #GetKind focus, encouraging their followers to help out in specific areas of need (this month it's single mothers), encouraging them to find someone in their local community to help, and swap ideas for how to do so.

While I love the larger projects that Random Acts facilitates (the orphanage in Haiti, the high school in Nicaragua, the crisis hotline), I appreciate that more than any other charity I've every supported, they encourage people to get INVOLVED. You know your money is going to a good place with those large scale projects, and small groups of volunteers are part of making each of those happen. Even more than that, though, you know that you can make an impact on a local and personal level, and that Random Acts is there to help you do so.

I have participated in events out in by and raised money for Random Acts a number of times. I was at a low point awhile back and found a sort of outlet through this organization. It's a wonderful feeling to help spread kindness. I've watched as RA has spread their goals globally. They do everything from small kindness prompts to month long charitable inspirations to building schools for couniries who lack the ability. I am equally touched by each act because their volunteers take these things to heart. Their mission is invaluable. I am awaiting the Crisis Line and have already thrown my hat in the ring to volunteer because the community they are spotlighting is in need. And to have something like this by the people, for the people is an incredible thing. I am and will continue to raise funds for this organization as well as shake as many hands as I can along the way. They deserve not only my money, but my time, and loyalty not because of their affect on my personally, but because of how strongly I agree with their cause. Kindness is not just an action, it is a way of life.

I see Random Acts as a very trustworthy organization and I am very satisfied with their projects. Not only do they use the money for concrete, hands-on projects, like the orphanage in Haiti and the highschool in Nicaragua, they also host worldwide events to spread kindness everywhere. Random Acts is extremely skilled at highlighting special days, and their monthly themes serve to direct focus to specific groups of society e.g. single mothers, people with mental illnesses etc.
I have both donated money directly to the organization, but also indirectly via partners (YANA, Gishwhes etc). Despite being a member of several charities, none of them are as transparent and all-inclusive as Random Acts is.
The next time I have a little room in my budget, I know where my money is heading.

I think Random Acts has a lot going for them with how they encourage kindness, etc. But I wouldn't seek them out if you need help. Here's my experience:
A volunteer found out I was going through a very hard time and she referred me to the RA Director. The Director reached out to me and I told her my situation. She asked what I wanted. I really didn't know. I just knew I needed support and that I did feel very alone. (it's too personal to share publicly) To make a long story short, I told her more of what was going on and let her decide what could be done to help. She never contacted me again. I was so upset.
I do believe this helpline they are starting up could be great for Random Acts, if the volunteers and the Director take on the training, this way they can use what they learn for clients. They do a lot of great things - donating to other charities, encouraging kindness acts towards others even with their contests with GISHWHES. But currently I believe they lack when someone goes to them in need for help. I hope that changes and that if someone in a similar situation to mine reaches out to them, they are better equipped to handle it.

I would gladly have reviewed this wonderful charity of my own volition (I've been a longtime supporter and donor) , but I feel the need to first respond to "Writer" who posted on January 10th. I was at the RA 5 Year Anniversary celebration at NJ Con and I know the woman (not girl) who threw her bra onstage. She's 24, which is by no means a "young teenage girl" as you libelously said and it was meant as a joke. Anyone with a sense of humor and without a clear bias against Misha can see that.

As for the picture on twitter, it was an advertisement that West saw and had a genuinely honest question about - I'm thankful Misha chooses to share such funny moments with his fans, because all children ask the darnedest things. There was no "situation" to handle and my children have said and done far worse. They're children.

Both Misha and Random Acts do so much good for others - they are truly wonderful, caring people who practice what they preach. I am so humbled by what they've accomplished in the past five years, and I hope to get involved with the next Nicaragua trip. Misha cares so deeply for those less fortunate and he encourages others to get involved and help spread the message of kindness and caring. And if he does it with humor? More power to him - it makes him more relatable and is completely harmless. Misha Collins is definitely a man of integrity and his nonprofit reflects that beautifully - now please, truly, stop slandering a man and a charity who have done nothing to deserve the few negative (and most likely from the same source) reviews on here. Go out and do good.

This charity is about Random Acts of Kindness.
Started by a man who has been raised poor and at times homeless himself, he has been touched/helped in various ways by people who have shown both large and small acts of charity.
Are they focused on one large goal? No.
Do they help as many as some of the larger celebrity charities? No.
What they DO is reach out in small ways to help those who are in need.
They have worked on a couple of large projects, such as building a Children's Center in Jacmel, Haiti as well as helping build a Free High School in San Juan del Sur.
Most activities center around helping children and families in small ways, such as purchasing beds, collecting donations for local shelters, etc.

Other events this charity promotes include AMOK, which is an annual day to focus on being kind to others.
Also, Endure4Kindness, which is a fundraising endurance event.

So, while their gestures aren't as "grand" as others, they focus on showing people it doesn't take much to be kind to others, and that is it possible to take over the world, one random act of kindness at a time.

Random Acts is a wonderful charity and has done many wonderful things. I am honored to donate to it every month. Couldn't think of a better place to send my money :)

I'm at a loss to understand the (few) low reviews; I've had experience as a donor and a volunteer, and they've always been positive. I'm especially drawn by the philosophy that small acts of kindness and generosity can make all the difference in people's lives. I'm impressed that so much of RA's money goes to these acts; they have a very high percentage rating. It's beyond amazing that a relatively small charity has been able to complete the beautiful facility in Haiti. I have no doubt that the work in Nicaragua will be just as successful. I would not hesitate to recommend Random Acts to anyone.

The true meaning that lies behind charity in itself, is random acts of kindness. This charity is amazing and it's amazing to see what this charity has accomplished all over the world. This is my favorite charity for so many reasons!

I'm so happy to find a place where I can leave a good review for the only nonprofit that I've ever felt actually valued me as a person, not just as a monetary donation or volunteer of time. I especially like that Random Acts is not beholden to just one type of act, or one particular cause. While that can get confusing when explaining to someone what Random Acts is or what it does, it keeps the door wide open for collaborations with other organizations--something Random Acts does frequently. The staff I've had the pleasure of communicating with has all been very helpful and kind (as one would expect!), and dedicated to growing this organization to expand its reach. Whether sending money to build schools in Nicaragua or receiving money to help promote a cause in your own backyard, you would do well to consider Random Acts when looking for a nonprofit to support.

KarynW: Please do let us all know exactly what charities do provide itemized spending lists for all their outgoings? Please also enlighten us on how you know what funds were raised by RA in 2014 when it has not yet posted its 990 or an Annual Report for that year (both are pending). Please also check the RA website (http://www.randomacts.org/about/reports/), where you will find 990s and Annual Reports for every years since RA was set up.

"realize most of these reviews are superfans of the celebrity face of the charity"

Also realize that most of the negative reviews here are from one single person with a grudge against the celebrity face of the charity who is angry that she didn't receive the personal attention she felt she deserved from senpai for volunteering with Random Acts. RA is aware of who she is.

Through the help of some friends of mine, I was able to receive a grant from Random Acts to purchase a new bunk bed for my sisters. I'm pretty much the sole provider for my household, so I'm taking care of my mom and three siblings. The beds they did have were old, and the mattresses sagging, so much so that my 11 year old sister's back started to hurt. Those got thrown out, and they instead started sleeping on our couches. Money being as tight as it is meant that I couldn't get them new beds.

The idea came up from some friends of mine to submit a proposal to have RA fund the purchase of a new bed. It was less than two weeks before I heard back (in the affirmative), the money came through shortly after that, and as of today (7/29), a brand new bunk bed with two brand new mattresses is newly assembled in their bedroom.

I can't express how much this means to me. The sisters have been bouncing around the house all day, even helping assemble the bed (and you need to understand how averse these kids are to even the simplest of chores!). I was so impressed with the speed that RA worked, and now don't have to worry about them not having a decent place to sleep when school starts.

Random Acts does a lot of good for a lot of people. They just recently helped a friend of mine obtain funds that they used to help others. Wonderful charity.

It is known in the Supernatural fandom that a former employee of Random Acts left the organization, in part because she she feels she didn't receive the praise she deserved especially from Misha Collins. She is extremely bitter about it and refuses to let it go. Her posts here are simply out of a desire to keep nursing her grudge against Misha Collins.

I have no doubts Random Acts had some struggles especially when it was first starting out. Such things are hardly an uncommon occurrence especially young non-profit organizations. But this former employee who keeps bashing RA hasn't been involved with them for some time and has no special knowledge about how well they are currently doing. From what I can tell, the current employees are very hardworking and competent, and I've been impressed with RA's latest projects and results.

Recently, a friend of mind has been struggling to provide for her younger siblings was able to receive a much needed gift from Random Acts. The application for this donation went without a hitch, and I'm pleased to continue my modest monthly donation of $15 a month to them. I hope people reading these reviews are able to see through the ones that are clearly come from someone with a biased personal grudge and are not a true reflection of the organization's ability to help others.

I can't people are still trying to purposefully drag down the reputation of this charity because of a personal dislike of the founder.
Random Acts is an organization that helps fund people in need. Their contributions are usually small, bu they do great things such as help fund building a children's center in Haiti, and a school in Nicaragua.
Other endeavors include food and supply drives for shelters and food banks.

Random acts encourages people to go out and perform random acts of kindness and charity without even using their resources. That does not sound like a money-hungry organization to me.

This review is twofold - both as a volunteer of the organization myself and as a rebuttal of "SamtheMan017" review which could not be more transparent or more wrong.

The aim of Random Acts is simple, touching, and wonderful. I've never worked with a charity before who so genuinely cares for both their supporters and the people they in turn support. It's a wonderful group of people founded on a belief that random acts of kindness can change the world. They are a transparent, well-respected organization and you are welcome to look at their financial information on the website - it's an easy process, if you're concerned by that sort of thing. I've been both a volunteer and a donor now for two years and I truly wish I would have stumbled upon this brilliant organization sooner. The volunteers are kind and the founder is a wonderful person.

That said, it's truly a shame that some choose to malign a great group rather than going out and doing good for the world. I can almost guarantee that the one-star reviews on here are from a group of people who do NOT do any work with or for the charity, but simply have an unreasonable bias (even vendetta) against the founder for unsubstantiated reasons. No organization is perfect, but Random Acts is a great group. Truly.

Now, SamtheMan017.. as for a few things that I felt compelled to answer from your review (and I use that term loosely)
1. "why was i being coerced to give Mr. Collins more money that conceivably goes right into his pocket?" - You really weren't. Coersion would be a strong word under any circumstance, but use that word in relation to a fun event that gives back to a charity is NOT coersion. I really don't think you grasp what entails a non-profit organization, but the charity is in good standing, up-to-date on tax information, and the money goes directly into charitable projects. Mr. Collins makes no profit from the organization, as you can clearly see if you would take the time to review their paperwork. It's quite simple and making claims like this without cause or proof is extremely uncalled for.
2. "and also there is some questionable content both in the hunt and in the marketing scheme leading up to it that makes it unsuitable for younger fans in particular" - Incorrect. For one, there is no marketing scheme - unless you consider all marketing for charity events to be a scheme, I suppose. And as a multi-year participant in the scavenger hunt, there is nothing unsuitable for anyone of any age. There just isn't, and if you think anything of the challenges are objectionable, I honestly don't know what to say to you.
3. "pimping Mr. Collins profitable ventures" - Repeat after me: non-profit. NON. PROFIT. Marketing and advertising is part of the game. It's all above-board. It is not easy to get non-profit status, and it is regulated. So please, kindly stop slandering this wonderful organization.

Last week I saw a member of a group that I belong to post that she was a recent graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington. She mentioned that she couldn't afford to set up her room which was a Title One school. I had been wanting to do a Random Act partnered with Random Acts and this seemed perfect. I got the teacher's wish list info, worked up a budget (originally I had budgeted $250 which I thought was the limit but they let me know I could request up to $500). I submitted the budget which was approved and within a few days the funds were transferred to my Paypal account. Two days later she had most of the books and supplies she needed which she otherwise woukd have had to pay for on her own. This was a great experence that I will gladly do again. They were great to work with, the communication was clear and prompt, all in all an awesome experience.

Perhaps the previous reviewer should, instead of reviewing personalities and tossing out backhanded compliments consider working with Random Acts to help make the world a better place but then her heart might grow three sizes at least and she could amend her review based on experience and not on junior high snakiness.

I would highly recommend Random Acts and encourage everyone into doing an ROAK funded by them. The entire experience was awesome.

I encountered several employees of Random Acts at San Diego Comic Con recently and spent a few minutes chatting with someone from their Marketing team. I left that conversation with a bad taste in my mouth. She spent the bulk of the time talking about her personal knowledge of/relationship with Mr. Collins and the rest encouraging me to join a scavenger hunt (requiring a registration fee). When I asked about how Random Acts was involved in the scavenger hunt, her answers were vague and poorly formed, reverting to "it's so much fun! You'll love it! please join!"

I was very much put off by her hard sale tactics. For one thing, I'm still not clear WHY a charitable organization --that I have given hundreds of dollars to over the years--wants me to join another company's paid adventure scheme? I grasped that RA might receive a donation at the end of the hunt, but other than that...why was I being coerced to give Mr. Collins money that conceivably goes right into his pocket? I like the man, but I have always been more interested in the altruistic nature of his personality and not in the crazy/strange things he chooses to do. There's a market for that I'm sure, but again...why is his charity pushing it so hard?

Given the unseemly nature of that encounter with the marketing person, I have done a little research since I got home and found a few items about the scavenger hunt (GISHWHES) in such poor taste that I am compelled to downgrade my previous assessment and support of Random Acts. I won't go into details here, because this is about RA, not GISHWHES, but there is some questionable content both in the hunt and in the marketing scheme leading up to it, that makes it unsuitable for younger fans in particular.

In conclusion, if Random Acts is choosing to spend their allotted time at a convention of the magnitude and reach of SDCC essentially "pimping" Mr. Collins profitable ventures, then I can no longer in good conscience support this charity. I miss the old days when there were half a dozen staff members at RA and meaningful encounters each and every time. The spirit of the organization fled at some point, and there is less good will and kindness being spread and much much more hyperactive, fannish BS.

I have donated regularly to this charity. I have purchased items from them online to benefit the organization, and given straight-up via credit card. Understand that this charity is taking on large projects which require huge amounts of money and their time. I love their on-going missions as well as the small acts of kindness they encourage to make the world a better place.

@MisDisappointment: You're LYING. RA's tax info is UP-TO-DATE and has been posted at its website and several other public websites. Your lies have been proven wrong time and time again.

Leaving negative reviews because you have a grudge against Misha Collins' presence on a TV show you think you own isn't going to achieve anything other than getting RA and Misha supporters over here to counter with positive comments. It's futile, it's an utter waste of your time. When are you going to get that? Stop being so spiteful. I highly doubt your favorite (lemme guess: Jared Padalecki?) would approve of your behavior.

Years ago I regularly donated to this 'charity', but I started paying more attention to where the money was going and became appalled at what was being done. Random is definitely an apt description for it. Many who support this company know very little about it and believe the game of telephone being passed around by his fans. Charity neglects updating tax info on site and is dismissive when information is requested by email. Turnover rate of volunteers is astronomical because they are only in it to gain Mr. Collins favor.

I have happily donated what few dollars I can to RA, because I see that it is going toward helping people, be it orphans, those at homeless shelters, encouraging others to do their own part in helping people in their local community. Random Act of Kindness can change lives this charity knows that, it is its Mission.

I've participated in several fundraising events for Random Acts and highly recommend it. The charity does great work on a small-scale basis, providing help to people who often get overlooked by larger organizations.

Be aware that most of the 1 star reviews that poured onto this site (in the span of a couple of weeks this year, and one more recently) were part of a fan campaign run by an overzealous SPN fan named "redfawn1966" who did not like RA's star rating and was trying to troll Misha Collins. They should be viewed accordingly under the appropriate critical lens, as I suspect most were written by redfawn1966 and a few of her friends. The claims made in those reviews have been refuted by many of RA's volunteers and donors.

After two years of supporting Random Acts, I can no longer recommend this organization. Unfortunately, my experiences with their events and particularly interactions with the Staff over the past six months have been abysmal. These women are only interested in gaining Misha's favor and are not even a tiny bit knowledgable about the events the org has participated or run the past several years or interested in actually assisting would-be volunteers. It used to be a much different place run by some truly lovely people. Now I fear it's one big PR campaign/ego booster for their celebrity founder.

Be aware that most of the 5 star reviews that poured onto this site (in the span of a couple of weeks this year) were part of a fan campaign run by an overzealous SPN fan named "exorcisingemily" who did not like RA's star rating and was trying to glean Misha's approval. They should be viewed accordingly under the appropriate critical lens, as I suspect most were written by Emily and a few of her friends.

I had heard of Random Acts long before participating in any of its projects.
It wasn't until after participating in Gishwhes in 2014 that I realized just how much Random Acts does. As I looked deeper into this charity, it surprised me how little the organization actually asks for donations for themselves. Everything either goes toward a specific project, or they help collect donations for other charitable works.
The main goal of RA seems to be about engaging people into helping their neighbors and contributing to society in small ways. They even offer help with support and donations for your own projects, if they meet approval.
As for transparency, documents are easily locatable on their website and they make contacting them easy. They even have the organization divided by global regions.
Due to the existence of Random Acts, I have become more active in my community, donating my time to local food banks and other local charitable organizations, that are unassociated with Random Acts.
I have made a few small donations to RA since discovering just how much good they do, and how much they inspire people to help others.

Considering the entire organization is volunteer-run and that they are as proactive and transparent as possible, it amazes me just how much they have been able to do thus far.

Random Acts is a wonderful, transparent, fun charity. I have the utmost faith in the RA team and I'm so glad to see their results (Jacmel Children's Center is finally open after a long building process held up with Haiti's procedures and delays). I gladly donate my money to RA whenever I have a little extra, because I believe in their creed and their founder. I do recommend disregarding the frankly libelous reviews of some of the one-star people, because their ulterior motives could not be plainer. It's honestly a bit laughable that they think their slander is a good idea, and yes, IP addresses can be tracked. And this is defamation. Keep that in mind the next time you are considering posting lies about an incredible organization.

In short, Random Acts is above-board and genuine. Love them and more importantly, I love what they believe in. Karma and kindness counts!

I've happily donated to Random Acts in the past years and would have absolutely no hesitation in doing so again in the future. This charity has been nothing if not completely transparent about everything it has done. Random Acts is founded on the idea that the simplest and randomest of gestures can have the most profound of impacts. From achieving the herculean task of building a children's center in Haiti to donating women's sanitary products to those most in need of them, this charity gives from the heart, reflecting the genuinely warm and loving ideals of its founder, Misha Collins. Anyone who says otherwise is a bitter little soul whose baseless accusations are laughable in the face of all the genuine good this organization had done.

It's great to see so many people who've actually taken part in Random Acts come to share their positive experiences with the charity. And to refute the lies contained in the negative reviews posted here by trolls. That's what generally happens when trolls post negative reviews. It's something the trolls might want to consider? Anyway:

"yet seem to have zero transparency about on what/where all this money is going (unless you count Misha's own families wallet and if rumour is to be believed hush money to select "volunteers" within the organisation)"

You know that's libel, right? And that the source code for your review will contain your IP address, in case RA wants to take legal action? Also, as umpteen people here have pointed out, RA is up-to-date with tax info and it is linked at their website. It is financially transparent.

"All those children Misha made sure to be photographed with are not living in that building, it remains empty to this day."

http://www.randomacts.org/news/the-jacmel-childrens-center-is-open/

Oops, perhaps you should have done your research before posting?

"The address on their website is nothing more than a rented PO Box in Denver"

Many charities and organizations use PO boxes. Oh my goodness, even the U.S. government uses PO boxes. Do you think we should inform all of them that it's illegal or that it indicates ~nefarious activities? No. Because it is not in fact illegal, nor does it imply nefarious activities. It reduces overheads.

"Misha's rabid fan base"

Look at you! Fan hate! You're going for all the food groups today, aren't you?

By your logic, all the fans who purchased Jared Padalecki's charity t-shirt are "Jared's rabid fan base." And all the fans who purchased Jensen Ackles' charity t-shirt are "Jensen's rabid fanbase."

"Misha's fans are their number one source for donations"

Fans of Goodwill are its number one source for donations. Fans of the Humane Society are its number one source for donations. Fans of Jared Padalecki are his number one source of donations to purchase his charity t-shirt. I could go on... so: Your point?

"I used to be one of the people who would happily hand over funds if I could afford to at the time or not due to being under Misha's influence."

Have you considered a career in stand-up comedy? Because I laughed long and uproariously at that particular joke!

"He has also publicly made false claims about where the funds come from to support his scavenger hunt that is affiliated with Random Acts. "

Lie #1,345... you are going for the record!

"This one simply exists to stroke Mr Collins ego and not much else."

Much as this review was posted to stroke your ego and not much else?

Dear troll: get a life, you sad, nasty, spiteful protozoan excuse for a human being.

Random Acts will change the world. That, I know for sure. I have hadnothing but a great experience from them. Professionals who are looking to make the world a better place. If more people were like this, we would do a lot of good in the world. So I am very thankful this nonprofit exists. Thank you for choosing to do so much good.

I first heard of Random Acts about two years ago. They are my favourite charity because I believe that these kinds of acts can actually make a difference for people.

Their volunteers are so nice and it is always a joy to see how they use the donations to make this world a better place.

It makes me really sad to see that people feel like they need to leave bad and completely unfounded reviews here, simply because they do not like a person involved in the charity. It makes me even sadder that hate like that leads to this amazing charity having to deal with this instead of doing good in the world.

Ive had nothing but wonderful interactions with this charity. Ive found it completely honest and transparent.

I have donated many times and participated in a few of this charity's fundraising events. I have never had so much fun doing so and helped others as I have with RA. I like how they offer so many ways to participate, which is what I find so appealing and unique.

I have never written a review for anything I have participated in or purchased before. But for RA I will make an acception because I have never involved myself in anything so selfless and sharing as this charitable organization. As a business owner, I donate a portion of my sales to RA. It is not a huge amount of money but it is hard earned by myself.

One of the things I looked for in a charity was how they would spend my money. RA mission statement is helping people in need with acts of kindness. RA encourages its followers to give back to their community and to donating for larger projects like an orphanage in storm ravaged Haiti.

Many of the small acts of kindness involve no money at all. Spending time with the elderly, reading to children in the hospital, checking on a neighbor or cleaning up a park.

It distresses me that certain people have come to this site with the single purpose of dragging RA down because of some fandom dislike for the founder Misha Collins. Let me just be clear here. I am not a teenage girl who sees the world thru the Rose color glasses of fanning for a TV celebrity. I am a retired businesswoman, owner of my own company. I have never met Mr. Collins, nor do I ever expect to. I imagine he is a very nice man considering this organization he has put his heart and soul into creating.

The annual earnings and yearly IRS 990 forms are easily found. They are current thru Dec 2013. It is too early for the 2014 returns to be posted. I believe others have posted handy links on this site.

As for an Annual Report, that is a pricey booklet with pretty pictures. For a small non-profit as RA that money is better spent on a small kindness. Leave the pretty pictures to the Internet.

I would and have recommended this charitable organization to anyone. It is my time and money well spent.

I would ask those people writing negative agended reviews ... What is the cost of making someone smile? Where does THAT go in the annual report?

It doesn't. It can't. Because it's priceless.

Apparently, GuideStar isn't a good enough source. Okay. What about the IRS? Go spend 5 minutes on the IRS website and you'll find The Art Department Inc. (RA's parent charity) is in good standing as a 501(c)(3) PC (Public Charity). The differences between a Public Charity and Public Foundation are also explained. Their EIN is 04-3276521.

The negative reviews here are not sincere. "Their last 990 is from 2012". No, it's right there on the website, it's from 2013. They likely don't have the 2014 yet. They are only required to share the 990 with the public. If you are unable to read a 990, that's really not something with which RA should have to concern themselves. That's on you, not them.

Anyone following the acts of RA knows they don't stop. Their kindness campaigns are year round. Have an idea for a Random Act? Submit a proposal. This is a good, valid, hard-working charity.

I donated because the fun activities that this organization does to help people makes volunteering fun rather than a penance that you have to complete.

They spread a message of kindness and caring. As for the orphanage, it takes time to get permits, especially in a city where most of the buildings and documentation were destroyed after the earthquake.

Er, negative reviewers, if you did actually know anything about taxation pertaining to nonprofits in the U.S., you would know that they are not required to file *typical* annual reports. The information required to keep their tax exempt status is on their annual Form 990. Random Acts's 2013 990 is available on its website, and in several other places, and has been since December – as ***NUMEROUS*** reviewers here have pointed out. It's too early for the 2014 990 to be available yet.

I've been a supporter of Random Acts for five years now. Before I get involved in any charity, I do my research, and was cautious before making my first donation. I've kept donating over the years, follow RA news closely, and continue to be impressed with its projects and its philosophies about how to do more good in the world. Random Acts looks at things on both a global and a smaller local level--charity can be a big fundraising drive, or building an orphanage in Haiti, or it can be local, helping those going through a rough time, supporting schools, or small acts of kindness to others. RA by its very structure and nature encourages active participation, not just sending money. There are also RA annual events such as Endure4Kindness and AMOK (Annual Melee of Kindness). Random Acts changed my perspective on charities, widened my views on what a charity can do and how charity gets carried out, and raised my awareness on why smaller acts of kindness are so important

It's not true that 2012 is the last year financial information is available. The 2013 990 tax return is available here for download:
https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/43276521 just scroll down. (direct link: https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/download-filing?path=2014_09_EO%2F04-3276521_990_201312.pdf)

2014 would not be available yet, as forms are not available until the IRS has processed them and it is not yet tax time. GreatNonprofits also has the 2013 return available but you have to upgrade to premium to access it.

It's regrettable that grudges from certain absolutist fans within the Supernatural fandom has led to an attack on a charity. I hope anyone considering Random Acts won't let that discourage or distract them from the actual nature of the charity and why it's worth supporting.

I have donated multiple times to this charity with cash, deeds, and in collections for women's shelters and food pantries. I have found all volunteers and staff quick to respond to any questions. I like the way this charity doesn't just do its own or major endeavors (like the orphanage in Haiti) but encourages people to complete their own acts of kindness too. The website has campaigns to keep people focused, information and brochures, and activities that people without much money can also do to help make the world a kinder place.

Random Acts is a wonderful charity that has had a very positive affect on my life. The volunteers and supporters are some of the most genuine, passionate people I have met. The endure 4 kindness campaign is particularly close to my heart. I give my support to this charity wholeheartedly as they try to make the world a better place, one random act of kindness at a time.

Random Acts is one of the best charities in the world! The love I have for the person who started this charity (Misha Collins) is far above everything else. Thank you, Random Acts, and thank you, Misha, for existing and helping the world become a better place!!

What is extraordinary and quite sad about the 1 star reviews left by certain parties is that they are clearly motivated by hatred for an actor because he plays a fictional character that they see as a threat to their entirely imagined incestuous relationship between two brothers on a horror/fantasy TV show.

It’s quite something isn’t it? To be so emotionally invested with the idea of two fictional brothers having sex with each other on that they are quite willing to run down the name of a real charity doing actual good in the real world. Helping real people in need, encouraging real people to be kinder. It sort of beggars belief.

Pettiness and immaturity aside, what irks me so much about this behaviour is that it destroys the purpose of a site like this. And here I will hold my hand up and say that I am speaking as someone who has worked for a non-profit for more than 15 years so I am a little biased when it comes to fair and accurate reviews.

Fraudulent, malicious reviews devalue every review on this site, and with it every charity featured and of course the site itself, diminishing its worth because how can you trust anything that is posted here when it clearly isn’t vetted for accuracy?

Given that other reviewers have rebutted some of the unfounded accusations with actual facts and evidence surely it would behoove the site owners to moderate the negative reviews?

Here is an update on progress for the Jacmel Children's Center in Haiti today - which is still underway but going strong. Sounds like they're nearly finished, since things operate differently in Haiti and there is a lot to consider and take care of before people can move in.

http://www.randomacts.org/news/jacmel-childrens-center-update-feb-2015/

I'm very glad to know where my donations are going. I can't wait to see it finally open!

I am involved with Random Acts for years and I can only tell everybody who donated like me or who thinks about donating how amazing this organization is. It teaches people that every little act of kindness counts and makes the world with many many small and bigger acts a better place. And the best,everbody in Random Acts works as VOLUNTEER, so money goes to the causes not to an administration machinery. Very trustful wonderful organization! 5 Stars without doubts!

Very transparent, wonderful organization staffed with genuinely kind, caring people. I researched their organization before making any donations, and information about their projects, tax information, and funding is very easy to find. If you have trouble, you can always email the staff and they will assist you. They fundraise like any other charitable organization, yes, but they also let you know what they are doing with their donations.

The creator and founder is a great person who is doing good for other people - definitely the best kind of non-profit to get involved with! I'd like to get more involved with their projects in the upcoming year. My guess is that anyone who is negative about Random Acts has an agenda that has nothing to do with kindness OR charity. Take it from someone who's been involved with their projects before - you couldn't ask for a better oranization.

I would not recommend this organization. They have a longstanding history of asking for large quantities of money but not showing anything that they have accomplished with it.

Random Acts is a wonderful organization that does everything to help people in need!

The Random Acts team and its creator are wonderful people. I sell jewelry online and donate half of my profit to Random Acts, and they were incredibly helpful with getting me set up as a volunteer so I could legally donate my profits without any hassle on either side. Their efforts go toward amazing things and every penny I donate to them is money well spent in my and my clients' eyes.

Random Acts and its creator are amazing and have helped so many people. The fan base of the creator volunteer for this charity and make it and very large and helpful one.

I work in community volunteer services and yet find myself disconnected from the people I serve because of work woes and the need to collect a paycheck. This summer, I volunteering with RA through GISHWHES and reminded myself why it is so important to recognize the needs of the individual while doing service. I not only made new friends in my neighborhood but also across the world because of RA. I'm proud to be part of this organization and to do what I can to help those around me with a single act of kindness.

Random Acts is a truly inspiring and remarkable charity.

I participated in last year's E4K. I raised $50 by hiking through my local ecological reserve. Not only did the money I donated go to an awesome charity, Random Acts got me off my butt for a day, where I thought about someone other than myself! Kudos Random Acts. You all do stellar work.

This is a wonderful charity that inspires kindness, globally ... what better to give to the world than kindness? You'd be surprised what a difference it can make.

I have donated to this charity before and would do so again in a heartbeat. A friend of mine was fortunate enough to meet Misha Collins and was pleased to see that he really is a very authentic, honest, generous man. This organization is very transparent with how it manages its budget which to me is extremely important with any charity and I know they contributed a lot to the Haiti Earthquake relief fund in 2010 with a movement called "Hope 2 Haiti." Truly a fantastic underrated charity that not many people know about, but should get more attention!

I have never seen a charity or its founder manage to spark so much in so many people on a whim. From getting a metro car full of people to sing "to grandmother's house we go" after a baseball game to inspire good feelings and raise awareness (and I did get $20 from a stranger to donate that night) to encouraging people to do something nice for someone around them, to building orphanages in Haiti. The goal is to improve the world as little or as much as you can. Random Acts does that.

this is a good charity; quit hating and join this amazing charity

I have always been looking for a charity to support. My brother had his and my mothers hers, but I was empty. Then I dicovered Misha Collins via Tumblr. This led me to Random Acts. This charity just fits me. I love helping people everyday, with random stuff. Supporting this amazing charity lets me know I'm helping people all over the world in small and large ways. I feel that Random Acts shows the beauty of humanity. Because of this Random Acts needs to be supported so it can continue its amazing work. People around the world have and will benfit from Mishas brain child. When you give money to this charity it always goes to their current project. They have done projects from building achurch in africa to handing out coffie to sleep deprived fans at San Diego Comic Con. This is my charity, will it be yours?

An amazing organization that helps so many people!!

Random Acts is a wonderful organization that drew my sister out of depression. Thank you, volunteers; if it weren't for you, I might not have a sister.

This is an amazing organization which helps thousands of people each year. In addition, Misha Collins is extremely unselfish and giving man who is an inspiration to many.

Random Acts is a wonderful organization that actually cares about their causes more than the popularity it gains. It was never about Misha Collins' fame, he never meant for it to be a jumpstart for his career - quite the opposite, he hoped his career would be a jumpstart for RA. Even from a distance as I am, it's visible the amount of caution and preparation the members and volunteers take with every single project - from collecting tampons to homeless women to building orphanages in Haiti. It's incredible the difference they're making and I am more than happy to have them around.

This is such an inspiring group. Small acts by many people create a movement of kindness we can all appreciate.

My self-published book is an approved fundraiser for RandomActs. Dealing with the people at RA has been one of the most wonderful and rewarding experiences of my life. They are incredibly kind, quick to reply, professional and helpful. I have not a single bad word to say about them. I love this organization to death and am looking forward to hopefully do more fundraising for them in the future.

I'm currently working with RA for an upcoming clothing drive in my impoverished community. I applied to their organization to associate the event with RA, and they were quick to respond, and happy to help! They even offer funding for some projects, as long as they fall under certain criteria. This is a wonderful organization, dedicated to changing the world one random act at a time, and quite honestly one of the best nonprofit groups I've ever worked with. You can tell they genuinely love the world, and it's beautiful to see and be a part of it.

This is such a beautiful charity, it has helped SO many and has the potential to help so many more! It is a beautiful collaboration between caring individuals and the brilliant Misha Collins, who has put his heart and soul into this charity. Absolutely wonderful! They fulfill so many peoples hearts, and I can't wait to see them continue to flourish!

I have volunteered and donated to Random Acts and participated in the GISHWHES event and I will definitely continue to do so. I follow their activities on social media and I think they do a wonderful job of helping people. In my opinion they are a fantastic charity that deserves more recognition.

Random Acts is a wonderful organization that helps tons of people every day! Misha Collins is also an amazing and giving man who would never abuse his power and authority over this charity. Random Acts is a completely legitimate charity that generally wants to help as many people as possible. I personally find it appauling that anyone would take their (ridiculous) grudge against Misha so far as to attack his charity program.

The most open and honest charity I've ever had the pleasure of working with.

I worked with Random Acts charity for the event GISHWHES and it was one of my greatest experiences of my life. The charity is run by amazing people and is really making a difference in the world.

I haven't worked much with RA, but I can say from the bottom of my heart that it is fantastic. With what I've seen and read, there is very little to be against when it comes to RA.

I'm not great with words, but RA means a lot to a lot of people. Random acts is wonderful. It's all in the name - random acts of kindness. It inspires so many people (especially in young people) to be kind and giving, all while having fun. Misha Collins is one of those rare celebrities who truly uses his status for good. What else can I say?

Random Acts is such a great and kind organization! They are always raising awareness and trying to find new ways to bring kindness into the world. I was very moved recently by the donation of feminine hygiene products to women's shelters. I also participated in GISHWHES, the Greatest International Scavenger Hunt the World Has Ever Seen, which is the most awesome way of raising money and awareness for charity on a global scale I have ever seen. Not to mention all the other amazing things Random Acts has done, such as building an orphanage in Haiti, which Misha Collins personally oversaw and did a lot of labor in. Even though I don't know Misha Collins personally, I'm so proud of his work with this charity.

random acts is in my school and it has lowered bullying in school.

They're always thinking of innovative ways to raise money and awareness. A real bastion of good will and kindness!

I have yet to participate in Random Acts but have seen first hand the wonderful things that have come out of this charity. A great organization that truly inspires me to improve my life as well as others through small acts of kindness.

I discovered Random Acts through social media and have been continually impressed with how the charity is conducted. The focus on small acts that can have a huge impact is something we can all aspire to. The fundraisers are fun and make you feel included. I go out of my way to be kinder in daily life because of RA.

I have participated in several Random Acts events, most recently E4K (Endure 4 Kindness) not only do they raise money but they are fun and uplifting for those participating. It's not just to raise money but to also do kindnesses at the same time and benefit the people raising funds. I think it is probably the best charity I have ever had the good fortune to discover. Their good works are rarely giant projects like the Haitian Center so you may not see big articles on them but they have a very transparent accounting of who they are, what they do and where their money goes. The people that run it are volunteers so the money does NOT go to pay big salaries of CEOs and the like which always turns me off about some of the big name charities. If anyone says their financials are difficult to find are simply not telling the truth since it took me 8 seconds to find them.

Furthermore, I am questioning the validity of this spate of 1 star reviews and am pretty certain there has been some sort of organized targeting of this charity by someone disgruntled about something other than the way this charity is run. They have stated blatant falsehoods about this charity. It is shameful that people would try to damage the reputation of a really great, unique charity based on doing kindnesses big and small due to other motivations and I hope they realize this is not the way to go about things.

Before learning about Random Acts, I donated money to charities and felt like I was doing my part to give back. What I didn't realize is that, while donations of money are helpful, donating time to personally help those in need is even more valuable. Spending time making food and serving it at soup kitchens, visiting nursing homes and holding parties for the residents, didn't only help those I was serving, it helped me. I could have just given money to these organizations, but I would have never understood what helping others really means to them. I would have missed the smiles and hugs. I learned that those who needed assistance actually assisted me in become a happier and more generous person. Random Acts spreads kindness. It is infectious and it is something that I hope infects the planet.

I first learned of Random Acts through following Misha Collins on twitter, and discovered it's a wonderful charity that has helped so many others. From helping build schools in Haiti, to handing out care packages for the homeless, Random Acts has exceeded every expectation I had from a charity. I have been lucky enough to donate a little when I can, and I know my money has gone to good use.

As a person who has been a giver and receiver of random acts of kindness, I know what a truly wonderful life changing event it can be. Random Acts is that, bought to life. I am always thrilled to be associated with this charity in any way, shape, or form. So proud that Misha is co-founder of Random Acts. Love, and respect to all involved.

I have had the opportunity to participate in several RA events over the last year and I have been overwhelmed by the positivity and kindness in the RA community. It is a truely wonderful charity and I am grateful to have a small part in it.

Random Acts is a wonderful charity that uses such innovative ways to seek out new people to join in its message of a simple act of kindness changing someone's day or life. Misha Collins is a fantastic individual who constantly challenges his fans and others to be more kind to each other in everyday life and beyond. The GISWHES scavenger hunt is also amazing, and brings together people from all over the world to do even more amazing things, and also brings attention to Random Acts. This is a superb charity, and I recommend everyone try to follow their lead.

When I started participating in Random Acts' activities, one of my kids said it was the coolest thing he's ever seen me do, and they are both excited when it's time to participate in anything RA has going on. It's fantastic to see my kids knowing the value of performing random acts of kindness to strangers. I follow everything RA is doing and have donated to them several times. Favorite charity.

Random Acts is a great upstanding charity that is committed to helping others. I was ecstatic to be able to support them through Amazon Smile. The enthusiasm and kindness of the volunteers and leadership is awe-inspiring

Before I knew what RA was, if I ever received a random act of kindness, it would immediately change the mood of my day. I am so glad this charity was made because people can be going through the worst in their lives, and what's a better way to showing you care by performing something so simple and beautiful? This charity deserves all the love and support. This can change the world, make us better people. I highly recommend people spreading this around. "Be the change you want to see in the world".

This organization helps me become a better person and helps others in the process. I am proud to be a part of it!

Random Acts has changed my life and the lives of many others! I would definitely encourage anyone to get involved with their projects and activities!

Random Acts is a rare organization that inspires the giver as well as benefitting the recipient. With the mindset that every small act of kindness is valued and important, it breaks down the mental barrier that one's actions are not "enough" and encourages everyone to do a little bit for someone else. I have personally pushed myself and found myself able to do and be more than I thought I could in response to the activities and message inherent in this organization.

Random Acts has made a huge difference in so many people's lives, including my own. It was a random act of kindness made to me through the AMOK program that really changed my life for the better, and I have since donated several times. I've never had any concerns over where my money is going, and have heard and seen nothing but positive things about Random Acts.

I discovered Random Acts last year and was immediately smitten with the idea. But I didn't on it right away. I followed them on various social media accounts and started having my kids participate in their Get Kind challenges shortly after. Soon I clicked over to their website and read through their work history and their upcoming event calendar, as well as reading through the facts on where all their money goes. My family and I decided to participate in E4K last October and I was an amazing experience. We are putting together an AMOK project as we speak. This charity does wonderful work and everyone I have dealt with on their end is very kind and helpful. Kindness and generosity leaves a huge impact and the people at Random Acts have come together to make a big difference.

I have been donating to Random Acts for a few years now and have been extremely satisfied with their work. They help alot of needy people and help others like me actively take part in fundraising activities like their AMOK and E4K events. I'm now able to contribute to charities in a more meaningful way.

I am continually impressed by the organisation and enthusiasm of Ramdom Acts. Their example has lead to my involvement not only in RA events, but other charities too.

I am very impressed with how this charity continues to inspire people to do even little acts of kindness that can make a big difference. It's all too easy in this cynical age to feel as though you can't make a difference that there is too much wrong with the world and the problems are too massive for you to make an impact. However, Random Acts inspires me in a way other charities haven't to do what I can to make the world a better place. I've donated to Random Acts for years now, and I'm very happy with what they've managed to accomplish and the way they continue to inspire others to do good.

I have donated to Random Acts in the past, and I have always been pleased with what they do with the money. I am especially proud of the orphanage that they are building. To be honest, the world would be a better place if everyone tried to help out the way that they have.

I have donated a number of times to Random Acts, and have always been satisfied with how the funds are being used. They do a range of different sized projects, from the oft-mentioned orphanage in Haiti (which is an enormous undertaking), to smaller individual projects such as the ones that occurred during their 12 days of Christmas project.

I'm not entirely sure why a couple of people are using clearly scripted reviews to attack one of the co-founders' fans (I don't believe a charity is the appropriate forum for this), but Random Acts is a separate entity that does an awful lot of work with a limited budget, and I have always found them to be very helpful when it comes to providing information, and keeping me updated about what is going on. All financials and updates are provided quickly and without fuss, and can be obtained with very little effort. I understand some may feel that this charity should only be engaging in projects the size of the Haiti one, however this is not how the charity runs or how it has claimed to run. This is about micro-deeds, and spreading awareness, and in this regard Random Acts are doing, in my opinion, a sterling job.

I really admire what Random Acts is doing in the world. When I first started learning about RA, I was glad to find that they are dedicated to transparency in their organization, which is something I believe is extremely important to look at when choosing which charities you'd like to donate to. Most charities nowadays don't actually use very much of their donations received towards research or action towards their causes if you research into it. Random Acts' financial reports & other documents can be found on their website at http://www.randomacts.org/about/reports/ . They dedicate their time & raised funds towards actual action towards their cause, whether it be getting together to build an orphanage, children's center (that will be open soon if it hasn't already), and help people with basic needs in Haiti, or just coming together to feed those who can't afford it themselves. You can view their ongoing projects at www.randomacts.org & click on the Events, Programs, & Projects tab.

Random Acts is an amazing organisation that helps people all around the world. It's a small one yet the difference they make is big, thanks to amazing volunteers and many donations. With their work they inspire people to change the world with random acts of kindness and they give us hope that world is not such a bad place after all, kindness still exists out there. They communicate with their supporters and get them involved in various activities like AMOK, and always explain how and where their donations are going. The volunteers running this organisation are very good at making this one of the best charities I've interacted with.

This charity has done a lot of great things and I'm baffled at some of the reviews here. It seems like someone has a grudge against Misha Collins than any legitimate complaint. Most of the complaints can be countered quite easily, like so...

The financial records are not that hard to decipher. I'm not an accountant either and I was able to understand them and I was satisfied. Even this website has the financial records indicated as satisfactory.

The criticism that they've done nothing is also quite baffling. If you go on their blog you can see all the things they've done recently. They do small things like bringing cupcakes or coffees to deserving strangers to large things like helping families in need with physical items or even special outings to lift their spirits. All of this can easily reach thousands of dollars pretty quickly. Im satisfied with the information available.

The children's center in Haiti has also had frequent updates. We saw it go from a vacant lot to a huge completed community center. The last update was in December, barely two months ago, and outlined exactly what was happening there.

Please don't take out your hatred or an actor on a quality charity that has had such a positive effect on so many people. This group has inspired so many people to do good things on their own time, too, outside of the organization. Anyone who would want to squash those good deeds because they don't like an actor or his fans needs to think about all the good they are destroying by attacking his charity.

Lastly, we are not all the same people. If this website wants to it can check our IPs to verify. im not the last positive reviewer or the one before that or the one before that etc. Considering te negative reviews are all very similar and started after a well known anti-Misha person began to tweet doubts about the charity, I can't say with certainty that all the negative reviews are different people.

I have had nothing but pleasant experiences with Random Acts since I first came across them a couple of years ago. I've had the pleasure of meeting some of their volunteers at conventions, who have been nothing but enthusiastic about their cause. You can tell they truly believe in what they are doing.

I feel that RA, primarily through Misha Collins although RA's Twiter account also does an amazing job, never fails to keep us updated as to where our money is going, and the progress of their projects, such as the Jacmel Children's Centre in Haiti. Some of the other events that RA has done, such as AMOK, have been amazing in bringing the community together, and providing hope. Numerous people I know have been inspired by events, such as E4K, to go out into the community and connect with others. This is something I feel that not all charities manage to accomplish, but RA definitely has.

And that's before even getting to the basic premise of RA: random acts of kindness that spread out across the community. And I certainly think RA has been successful in this endeavour. From events such as GISHWHES, there is no doubt that RA has changed the lives of so many people, and inspired many more to do their best to help others. I truly believe that RA is one of the most inspirational charities I've ever come across, and will be happy to support any of their future endeavours in the years to come.

I've been involved with many charities in my life, for as long as I can remember, and Random Acts is one of the very few I feel truly does create an impact the way charity is meant to. It makes a difference in the sense that it's not just for recognition, but for the drive to spread kindness and a helping hand to those who truly need it. It encourages kindness in both big and small ways, and leads by example. The charity founder, Misha Collins, used a simple act of kindness from his childhood to motivate and build the message of his charity. He continues to spread awareness in the hope that he can encourage people to help others, if even just to put a smile on their faces. The smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference, is how I feel Random Acts performs. Remembering a moment in my own childhood when my family fell on hard times and needed just a small miracle, we received a helping hand which in turn gave us a way to get back up and left me with one of the greatest impressions of my life. It encouraged me to pass the kindness along. I feel like Random Acts makes these sorts of "small miracles" everyday, and has become a monumental success in spreading kindness from hand to hand. I had the pleasure of meeting Misha Collins, as well as some of Random Acts volunteers, and it's only strengthened my impression that Random Acts practices what it preaches. From yearly scavenger hunts with GISHWHES that encourage fun and spreading kindness, projects and events like Endure4Kindness and AMOK, to donations of food, clothing, and other basic essentials with various events, and even building The Jacmel Children's Center with its Hope 2 Haiti project after the 2010 earthquake, Random Acts is both a shining star and a great asset to the world. I have never been more proud to both donate, and spread the word of this charity for the past 4 years. If you need anymore encouragement to check out this wonderful charity, I recommend visiting their website randomacts.org and taking a look for yourself. Start out your daily routine with something small. It'll brighten your day, as well as someone else's. It's well worth it.

I've donated to RA several times and participated in several randoms acts of kindness through their events. While GISHWHES isn't directly related to RA, it often promotes causes by them as well as other acts that fit with the goals and spirit of the organization. One of the more recent acts they did involved donating feminine hygiene products to local homeless and women's shelters in Texas. This organized event inspired many to do similar acts on their own, which is the exact spirit of random kindness that this organization stands for.

This organization puts on their own small events and publicized them, which then inspire others to act on their own. It's like a ripple effect and it's an amazing thing. It makes a n organization with a relatively small organization with a pretty small budget incredibly effective. It's very inspirational.

One of the biggest events they've ever done was building a center in Jacmel, Haiti. This is probably what they're most known for and it's something to be proud of. A small charity organization built a huge center that greatly benefits those affected by a devestating natural disaster. Talk about inspirational!

Until recently I was an avid fan and supporter of Random Acts, the charity founded by actor Misha Collins. However, in more recent months I have seen a change in direction for this charity, one that I think shows a fundamental lack of compassion and interest in their supporter base. I (and several friends) have completed acts of kindness through Random Acts' funding program on different occasions in the past and been able to help many individuals. Those experiences were heartwarming and incredible and the staff that worked with us to complete those acts of kindness was helpful and enthusiastic, compelling us forward when we had questions or doubts and offering suggestions and cheerleading when we needed it. I was never afraid to ask a question or felt that i was being talked down to or being a bother. Answers were always prompt and clear and very kind.

Unfortunately it appears that Random Acts has restructured and replaced all of their staff and the new people are not of the same caliber or compassion as previously noted. After inquiring about funding for a new act of kindness, I was snippily informed that "policies have changed", that the former staff member I worked with before was "gone", and that I would not be able to carry out my planned act of kindness for a neighbor. You see, I wanted to purchase a gift card to a pharmacy and a local grocery supercenter, for an ailing woman who has fallen on hard times. I have completed similar acts in the past and it was a very rewarding and humbling experience. This woman is so deserving and sweet and I simply couldn't sit by while she couldn't afford adequate food for herself and her pets, and even went without her medications on occasion. As stated above, I was told "We don't do that. Our policy is not to pay for gift cards, sorry."

No. No you're not sorry XXXXX. You are condescending and rude and you seem to have the wrong idea about what exactly your role is in a charity I have personally supported and volunteered for, for several years. How would my purchasing and delivering food for an individual --not knowing their dietary restrictions or preferences--be as useful as giving them the autonomy to provide for themselves? How would I ever be allowed to purchase prescriptions for an individual (hint: I wouldn't)? Your new "policy" prevented me from helping a woman who is so very deserving and kind, but I suppose it made you feel better, to wield that veto power.

Due to these experiences, I now have serious reservations about the use of fan donations to Random Acts and I would not recommend this charity at this time.

I was a long time supporter and donor to Random Acts, the non-profit under the umbrella "The Art Department". Early this year (2014) I became concerned about the lack of development projects or details regarding the organization's expenditures. The annual reports on the website are years old and the few "funded acts" they started featuring this year were old. Digging into the available financial records on Guidestar, I discovered that the organization supports another non-profit called the Center for Cultural Evolution, which is apparently a bed and breakfast/meeting space and the primary residence of the founder's mother. This type of blurring of lines between appropriate use of donations and personal property/personal gain has led me to withdraw my support from Random Acts. The actor who founded the organization is quite charming, but both he and the organization as a whole seem to be without substance or merit.

Their original premise --helping the orphans in a ravaged Haiti--was duly supported and seems to have (mostly) come to fruition; after that project ended, the organization has floundered without a true mission or cause to support. A shame. The idea of paying it forward (and helping people to do so) still holds merit. However, having spent a great deal of time researching their activities over the past year, and speaking to a few staff members who seem wholly uninformed and inexperienced the the non-profit sector, I doubt they will ever be able to succeed. To be fair, the staff members I spoke with reiterated that they were "new" in their position; perhaps this is to be expected in what has always largely been a "fan run" charity.

I was interested in performing an act of kindness through one of Random Acts programs for schools this year. I emailed for more information and for guidance in my groups plans to ensure that what we wanted to do was feasible and qualified for their programs. The Regional Events Officer sent a very terse reply that said Random Acts does not help people plan acts of kindness in any way, nor give any information to volunteers about performing or planning acts. She told me to go to their forum and ask someone there. Why would I ask some random person who isn't even affiliated with Random Acts a question about qualifying for their programs?

Other emails have gone unanswered/ignored, and after investigating a little further I have decided to withdraw all of my support of this organization. They seem to ask for a LOT of money from supporters, but they don't seem to be spending it anywhere (visibly). This concerns me, especially if they are not going to communicate with the people who are giving them their funding to operate.

If their mission is to spread acts of kindness, then their number one focus should be providing ways for people to do so, and that INCLUDES giving help or assistance with ideas if people ask for them. NOT dismissing people with a rude email reply.

I love working with this group, they make some amazing things happen! Basically the groups main goal is to make the world a better place through random acts of kindness. This can be anything from donating money or clothing, cleaning up a park, or simply opening a door for someone.

You don't have to donate lots of money or hours of your time to participate. One act of kindness can create a ripple effect that grows and changes more lives. When and how you participate is up to you, but the group does holds several global events throughout the year to get everyone together.

This is one of the most rewarding organizations I've been apart of. It's challenged me to make a difference in MY community in a way I felt helped, as well as help around the world. It's don't take much to be apart of this group, but once you're in, it'll change your life!