Where Is Positive Going? Wherever We Take It!

Today is…

National Day of Encouragement

In 2007, young people at the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, formed The Encouragement Project. As part of this group, they started the National Day of Encouragement, because they saw lack of encouragement as one of the main obstacles that young people face, and said encouragement was needed to help overcome negative influences. Many people across the country encouraged and supported each other following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. September 12 was chosen as the date of National Day of Encouragement in honor of the spirit of encouragement that followed that tragic day.

Following the day’s creation, the first official to issue a proclamation was Belinda LaForce, then mayor of Searcy, on August 22, 2007. Soon afterward, Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe issued a proclamation designating September 12, 2007, as “State Day of Encouragement.” According to multiple sources, President George W. Bush signed a document in 2007 designating the day as the National Day of Encouragement. A Senate resolution for the day was introduced by Arkansas Senator Mark Pryor and was passed by unanimous consent on September 13, 2011.

How to Observe

Celebrate the day by encouraging others, particularly if they are working to overcome negative influences. There are many ways this can be done. Words of inspiration, support, and kindness can bring much encouragement and boost morale. Just stopping to talk to someone and showing them you care can make a huge difference. Not only are words important, but acts of service and help can do much as well. Take the time to show someone you care with your deeds; stop to help them in time of need

#NationalDayOfEncouragement

#DayOfEncouragement