In every home we organize, there is that one cabinet (generally high up above the fridge) where vases go to live for eternity. When we find their forgotten hiding place, I’m always quick to mention Random Acts of Flowers (RAF) to clients, as there is such a HUGE need for vases to support their mission.

For years RAF has graced our donation guide, but we’ve never had the chance to share their story here. Thank you to Meggie Dials, Board Chair (and all around amazing steward of Indianapolis) for sharing her experience with RAF below.

What need did you see in the community that led you to get involved with Random Acts of Flowers (RAF)?

Many years ago, I started an organization called The Sussy Project where I took nominations for deserving people, and would "surprise someone with kindness" by sending them a "sussy" (defined as a gift given for no reason). The gift was not large in monetary value, but it showed that person that someone was thinking of them and felt they could use a smile. As life got busier for myself, the organization dissolved but my passion for random acts of kindness did not. When I was approached about a board position for Random Acts of Flowers, it felt like a natural fit. What a simple mission! And 5+ years later, I am finishing up my second year as Board President and truly just love what we do.

Can you share a bit about the history of RAF and the services you provide?

The mission of RAF was implemented first in Knoxville, TN and brought to Indianapolis by a group of philanthropic community leaders. As of July 1, 2020, RAF Indianapolis became an Indiana based not-for-profit with a mission to improve the emotional health and wellbeing of individuals in healthcare facilities by delivering recycled flowers, encouragement, and personal moments of kindness.

Not only have we delivered over 100,000 floral arrangements to patients in healthcare, but we also have a volunteer population of over 300 people. They spend their days prepping, arranging and delivering flowers. But I think the secondary benefit of this organization is also the community it provides to our volunteers - many of which are retirees. They have found long lasting friendships and purpose in our mission.

What can we anticipate seeing from RAF in the next 3 years?

Expansion of deliveries within Marion and the seven contiguous counties to a wide variety of healthcare and senior living facilities.

Is there a specific example you can share of how RAF has impacted someone’s life?

The notes and calls received from recipients, their caregivers and healthcare workers indicate the joy the unexpected delivery brings to them. We also often find ourselves as a recipient in someone's trust or will - which clearly demonstrates that that one arrangement touched that person. Our recipients may not have family or friends to visit and if you have ever been in a hospital room, hospice facility, dialysis center, addiction recovery center, then you know how dark and sad those establishments can feel. A bright display of flowers can truly make the difference in someone's mental well-being.

How many people in our community have had the chance to benefit from RAF?

Since the inception in 2016, over 113,000 deliveries have been made. Over 300 volunteers have shared almost 40,000 hours in the workshop.

How can we follow along on the great work that RAF is doing in the community?

www.rafindy.org tells our story, shares how to become a volunteer, how to donate and more. We can be found @RAFIndianapolis on both Facebook and Instagram.

How can readers get involved?

There is an orientation process for anyone interested in learning about the mission and the multiple ways to become involved. Vase drives are an easy way to begin; our vase drive toolkit can be found here.

And we would LOVE to have people join our Flor-A-Thon each spring which is our biggest fundraiser each year!

What types of items can be donated to RAOF?

Vases – we use 300-500 per week (more information on sizing can be found here). We also often have needs for new sheers, aprons, as well as items like new tires for our delivery trucks. We run a very lean operation so every donation counts.

We have three convenient drop-off locations:

Random Acts of Flowers Indianapolis
1057 E 54th St., Suite F
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Open Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Friday By Appointment
(We have a vase drop-off bin for after-hours deliveries.)

Private Residence
8222 Moore Rd.
Indianapolis, IN
(bin out front)

Bargersville Wellness
17 N. Baldwin St.
Bargersville 46106
317-458-0743 (call to confirm hours)

You can also donate flowers. While we receive flowers from florists, grocery stores and funeral homes, some of our donations come from weddings, birthday celebrations, and local events, large and small.

Learn more here: Donate Flowers - RAF Indianapolis (rafindy.org)

What an absolute joy to connect with Meggie and the RAF team. Their mission is so powerful and we love the way they are giving new life to an item that often gets forgotten about.

Now a little summer project for you all - find that hiding spot where your vases have been sequestered off to, and take a little trip to RAF to donate and see some behind the scenes magic.

The Baer Minimalist helps busy families create ORGANIZED + STYLIZED spaces throughout Indianapolis. She loves passing along her vases to RAF immediately after an arrangement is past its prime. Are you surprised?

To keep up to date with all of the tips, tricks and inspiration doled out, subscribe to our newsletter, The Minimal-List, here.

DONATION RESOURCE // Random Acts of Flowers