In 2015, Great NH Restaurants decided to empower their management teams with a “Random Acts of Kindness” program. Managers of all the T-BONES, Cactus Jack’s, CJ’s and Copper Door restaurants surprise guests with free desserts, appetizers, or even entire meals when they see a touching story or experience happening inside their restaurants. Those that are fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of these random acts are also given a $25 “Pay it Forward” certificate that allows them to surprise and brighten someone else’s day.

The program was so meaningful to both the recipients and the restaurant staff, a website (www.GNHRrak.com) was built to gather and share all the heartwarming stories and photos that came from these special moments. Stories range from fun celebrations to reunions of family, to acknowledgement of veterans, or those who may not be having a great day abound. The Great NH Restaurant culture exudes the spirit of community and volunteerism so much so that many feel it is the cornerstone of their reputation for providing genuine hospitality.

On May 2, 2018, another New Hampshire “RAK story” occurred when a young woman and her husband that had a knock at their apartment door from a nurse asking if they would help her with an elderly neighbor next door that had fallen. The elderly gentleman was fine and all was good. The next night, another knock at the door came, and there was the elderly neighbor coming over to thank them for their assistance. He said, “I am so thankful for you and your husband helping me up yesterday. I wanted to thank you both and treat you to dinner, here is a gift card. Have you ever heard of T-Bones, Cactus Jacks, or the Copper Door?”

The twist to this story is that this time, the recipient of the gift was me, Rachel Savoie! I just happen to be the daughter of Great NH Restaurants CEO, Tom Boucher. I was so touched by this experience that I replied to my elderly neighbor with a big smile on my face and a simple “yes”! Trying hard not to tell him how well I actually knew these places and not wanting to ruin the moment.

As I said good bye and closed the door, I can’t tell you how much this moment meant to me, and how proud I am of my dad and the Great NH Restaurants team for providing this type of experience to their guests every day. It just proves that a company CAN make a difference in people’s lives and that providing positive leadership can make New Hampshire a better place to live and work.