Shari Arison meets Pope Francis in the Vatican (© Servizio Fotografico - L’Osservatore Romano)
Businesswoman and philanthropist Shari Arison met with Pope Francis in the Vatican on Wednesday, in honor of Good Deeds Day on March 15, 2015. Arison attended the weekly papal audience as part of her trip to Rome, which will serve as the capital of Good Deeds Day this year. She gave the pope three copies of her book - Activate Your Goodness: Transforming the World Through Doing Good - in Italian, Spanish and English. The book is also available in other languages including Arabic, French, German and more.
On the global initiative, Arison says: "Good Deeds Day, initiated nine years ago, is a day that does good deep in your heart. It is a day that connects between people of all ages, cultures, and religions. It has crossed all borders to become an international tradition, where people from all walks of life unite around the simple idea that every person can do something good for the benefit of others and the planet."
On March 14 and 15, Rome will come alive with opportunities for individuals of all ages, businesses and nonprofits to give back to the community. On Saturday, March 14 over 150 nonprofits will open their doors, inviting anyone to come learn about what they do and give back. And on Sunday, March 15, Rome will be holding a major Good Deeds Day celebration on the Via dei Fori Imperiali. This main road, leading to the Colosseum in the center of Rome will be lined with nonprofits at informational booths, live performances, children’s activities and other surprises.
Elsewhere in the world, some 900,000 volunteers will be taking part in Good Deeds Day in 58 countries around the world, from kick-offs and fairs to visits to elderly care homes and environmental activities - each giving to their own heart's desire. In total, more than three million hours of volunteering will be served on this day.
"Remember even a smile that brightens someone else's day is a good deed" says Arison.
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Goodnet was initiated by Shari Arison and is operated by The Ted Arison Family Foundation. Shari Arison is also the initiator of Good Deeds Day.
