Close Ad

Success Stories

Woman Is Rejected as a Flight Attendant for Being Too Short - So She Started Her Own Aviation Company
Success Stories

Woman Is Rejected as a Flight Attendant for Being Too Short - So She Started Her Own Aviation Company

When Sibongile Sambo was a little girl she would stop and watch the airplanes fly overhead as she played in the streets of her hometown, Bushbuckridge, South Africa.She dreamt that someday, she would fly too. She decided to pursue a career in aviation. However, after being rejected by multiple airlines for not measuring up, literally — she was too short to be a flight attendant — it seemed like it wasn't meant to be.But rather than give up, she dug in. And her dream? Took flight.Today she is the founder and CEO of SRS (Sibongile Rejoice Sambo) Aviation and made history doing it. Sibongile Sambo Flies Into the History BooksSambo is used to hearing the word "No." She doesn't let it stop her. After failing her first year of University in Accounting, her advisors begged her to switch to nursing or teaching. Sambo refused."I said I'd rather stay at home if that was the case. Then I decided to register in a B.Admin in industrial psychology and political science," she told eNCA.She aced her classes, graduated, and worked in Human Resources for seven years. But she wasn't happy and still, in the back of her mind was that desire to pursue her passion.In 2004, she finally decided to go for it. She quit her job and bid on a contract supplying cargo transport for the South African government. There was just one not-so-minor catch. She needed an airplane. Despite having zero experience in aviation and no collateral, she refused to be grounded. Rejected by financiers, she sold her house and car and used her mother's and aunt's pensions to buy a Russian plane. "I never thought about losing," she said of risking it all. "For me, this was the beginning of a winning game...I was just fired up with passion seeing this dream becoming a reality.""That voice inside me, that spiritual voice that says 'You will make it,' that is what I listened to."Sibongile SamboThe voice was right. Against overwhelming odds, Sambo bought the plane for $800,000, managed to obtain an Air Operating Certificate from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), AND won the government contract. The Sky's the LimitBreaking into the male-dominated industry has been a turbulent ride. But not only did Sambo break into the industry, she broke the glass ceiling. SRS Aviation is "the first, and only, fully empowered, Black women-owned and operated airborne services business in South Africa," according to its website.The company offers professional and personalized flight options including VIP charter, air cargo charter, tourist transfers, medical evacuations, aerial photography, and general air security services.Additionally, it is also the African distributor of new and overhauled aircraft spare parts for the commercial, commuter, corporate, Military, and Cargo Aerospace Industries. And in 2020, it inherited a technical training school. In recognition of her impressive achievements, Sambo has scored multiple awards over the years, including the Black Woman in Business Awards, Impumelelo Top Female Entrepreneur of the Year, and she was also named a "Leader of Tomorrow" by Fortune Magazine.And Sambo is nowhere done yet. The entrepreneur, international speaker, and Fortune 500 mentor continues to chart new heights and recently graduated with her MBA from the University of Pretoria.See Your Own Dreams Take FlightBeyond her professional accomplishments, Sambo remains deeply committed to empowering women in aviation. As a staunch advocate for gender equality, she has championed initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in the industry and she has helped numerous women get their pilot licenses.For any other little girl looking to the skies, or to anyone dreaming big, Sambo has this advice:"I would say to that little girl, 'My young girl, the sky is not even the limit, you can do it. If you have a dream don't let it die. Keep the spirit going. Keep that dream alive. Do something about it, don't procrastinate, don't sit back.'" "Don't listen to those negative voices that will tell you that you can't make it. If somebody tells you you can't do it, tell them that I can. You can reach the skies, you can reach your goals and go for it."Sibongile Sambo More from Goalcast:Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyConfused 94-Year-Old Passenger Holds up Flight – Then One Man Stepped In and Gave up His First-Class SeatMom of 3 Is Overwhelmed Taking Care of Her 3 Kids Alone on Flight – Until a Guardian Angel Comes to the Rescue

This New York Restaurant Staffs Its Kitchen ONLY With Everybody's Favorite Cooks: Grandmothers
Success Stories

This New York Restaurant Staffs Its Kitchen ONLY With Everybody's Favorite Cooks: Grandmothers

Who doesn't love a good home-cooked meal?Joe Scaravella certainly does. When he opened the restaurant Enoteca Maria in Staten Island, he named it after his mother, who had passed away. “It was grief-driven and I had no business plan. I had no experience. I never even worked in a restaurant, no idea what I was doing,” he admits. “And so it just kind of unfolded.”Looking back, Scaravella sees the journey as “trying to recreate that part of my life,” the part where he was surrounded by the love — and good cooking — of his grandmother, his mother, and his sister. Scaravella was born in Brooklyn and his grandmother was born in Sicily. Scaravella describes her as sweet, kind — and the best cook. So very shortly after opening Enoteca Maria, Scaravella called upon some Italian nonnas to help him out in the kitchen. Home-cooked Meals From Nonnas draw hungry patrons The first grandmothers he hired to staff the kitchen were all Italian. But several years into the wildly successful experiment, Scaravella opened those swinging doors to grandmothers from all over the world. The current rotation counts 30 to 40 women, but over 100 grandmothers from all over the world have cooked at Enoteca Maria. Although not professional chefs, these women have been cooking for decades. They cook dishes that they learned at a young age and have perfected alongside their own mothers and grandmothers. The restaurant’s website states that “real grandmothers from every country across the globe are invited and hired as chefs to cook the recipes handed down to them that they cook at home for their families, that make up the fabric of the culture they were born and raised in.” While the restaurant’s staff might not come from every country in the world, the running list is nothing to scoff at. Grandmothers have cooked traditional dishes hailing from Algeria, Bangladesh, Syria, Argentina, the Dominican Republic, Japan, Trinidad, Belarus, Poland, France, and more.Customers are over the moon. Enoteca Maria has over 14,000 followers on Facebook, 10,000 on Instagram, and 500 Google reviews with a rating of 4.6/5. “Everybody, they’re kissing me,” gushes Gianlanella, an Italian nonna who cooks at the restaurant. “They wanna make a photograph with me. Everybody say, ‘Oh, I love you, I’ll come again. I wanna see you again.’”Those happy customers can do just that. For those who have a favorite grandmother-cook, the restaurant’s Nonnas Calendar lets them know which grandmothers will be in the kitchen on which nights.Grandmothers share their wealth of knowledge Enoteca Maria’s home-cooked meals are not just a passing fancy. Some of these grandmothers have been cooking regularly at the restaurant for nearly a decade. The women say the work has added happiness and friends to their lives. They love meeting people.“I feel very lucky. You won’t find me sitting around,” said Rosa Correa, a Peruvian grandmother.“Nobody knew me,” said another of the restaurant’s grandmothers, this one from Greece. “Now everybody loves me. I have a lot of people, like 1,000 people on the Facebook list and Instagram. I’m very happy. I’m proud.”A third grandmother added, “When I cook here, I feel like I’m showing the world a part of Syria. It’s good to show there’s something good coming out of my homeland.”Scaravella also weighed in on the benefits of hiring grandmothers in the kitchen “Many times, these women are empty nesters. Their husbands have passed away. Their children have moved out. So, they’re really looking for an outlet and they have it here. And you know, if they’re not hugging me, they’re hugging their customers.”Home-cooked meals for the next generationCustomers now come not only to eat the delicious food—but also to learn how to cook it! The restaurant gives cooking lessons, and true to it’s homey, down-to-earth vibe, the lessons are free and one-on-one with a grandmother in the kitchen. Obviously, there’s a long waiting list.“I think it’s very important to bring people together, and I think food and music and art do that, comfortably, and I’m very proud to be part of that movement,” said Scaravella, whose restaurant was featured on BBC Travel. And just in case you were wondering, there is one grandpa among the kitchen staff. He’s from Italy and makes all the pasta for the restaurant.For Scaravella, the restaurant is a win-win-win: keeping alive the memories of the beloved women in his life, providing these grandmothers from all over the world with a place to share their time and talents, and giving the restaurant’s customers a place to call “home."

He Was Bullied for His Homemade University T-Shirt Design so the School Made it Their Official Logo
Success Stories

He Was Bullied for His Homemade University T-Shirt Design so the School Made it Their Official Logo

A little support can go a long way. When we believe in each other, the confidence, support, and encouragement transferred is contagious, and can truly change lives. In the case of one Florida student, the support of a local network of strangers and his school made memories he will never forget. Laura Snyder, an elementary school teacher at Altamonte Elementary School, oversaw her class "College Colors Day," one student melted her heart. RELATED READ: Hugh Jackman Stands Up for 10-Year-Old Bullying Victim, Sends Her Powerful Words of EncouragementHere's How a School Stood Behind a Bullied StudentDespite being a diehard fan of the University of Tennessee sports teams, the student did not own any official gear and resorted to his creativity to show his support. The young student — who has remained nameless — instead drew his own rendition of the school's logo on a piece of paper, and pinned it to an orange T-shirt to resemble the school colors of the Tennessee Vols. “When the day finally arrived, he was SO EXCITED to show me his shirt,” Snyder revealed on Facebook. “I was impressed that he took it one step further to make his own label.”Unfortunately, by mid-day, the student was in tears. Apparently, when the student went to lunch, a group of nearby students mocked his design, deflating the boy's excitement. “Some girls at the lunch table next to his (who didn’t even participate in college colors day) had made fun of his sign that he had attached to his shirt. He was DEVASTATED,” said Snyder.Determined to make the situation right, Snyder went on Facebook with the hopes of reaching someone affiliated with the university. Though she originally just planned to get the boy some official merchandise, what happened next took everyone by surprise. In under a week, the post had gained so much attention, that tens of thousands of people had shared the story, standing up for the student. Tennessee fans from all over the country poured in with comments of support and encouragement, and soon the university even got in touch to send the boy an official package of apparel. “My student was so amazed at all the goodies in the box," admitted the teacher. "He proudly put on the jersey and one of the many hats in the box. All who saw had either goosebumps or tears while we explained that he had inspired and touched the lives of so many people.” She added that the student was able to give out assorted merchandise to his classmates, including pens, towels, and water bottles. "While the kids were filling water bottles and waiting to water down their towels, it made this teacher so proud to see the kids congratulating my student. High fives, hugs, pats on the back could be seen from the kids. This experience is uniting my class even more than I could have imagined, and it was truly amazing to witness!!"The gift clearly extended beyond the student in question, and showed all the classmates the power of creativity, self-belief, and support. Even though some other students had the power to deflate the boy's confidence when they made fun of his design, others had the overwhelmingly opposite effect by standing up for him. However, the story does not end there. Once the University of Tennessee got wind of the story, they decided to turn the boy's design into an official, licensed piece of merchandise available for purchase.“Share in a Florida elementary student’s Volunteer pride by wearing his design on your shirt too!,” the university’s official campus store said on Twitter.According to the university, a portion of the proceeds from every shirt sold will go to an anti-bullying foundation.“When I told him that his design was being made into a real shirt and people wanted to wear it, his jaw dropped,” said Snyder. “He had a big smile on his face, walked taller, and I could tell his confidence grew today!”The shirt got so much support, that the official store website even crashed under all the traffic!Snyder also shared a note from the boy's mother, who wrote, “I am overwhelmed by the love I feel from this extended community and the pride I feel for my son and for being a VFL. Every comment, item sent, and action taken on behalf of my son will never be forgotten and hopefully will serve as inspiration for him throughout his life."Standing up for others in moments of vulnerability can be life-changing, and inject others with confidence that lasts. It is important to always stand up for others when we can, even if it won't result in a sold-out t-shirt design. Who knows, maybe the child even has a future in graphic design thanks to the support of those around him. When we nurture others in moments of vulnerability, we never know where it may take them.

After 28 Years in Jail For a Wrongful Conviction, Man Reunited With Pen Pal Who Wrote to Him Every Single Week
Success Stories

After 28 Years in Jail For a Wrongful Conviction, Man Reunited With Pen Pal Who Wrote to Him Every Single Week

“Reach out to somebody that might need a friend, it could mean more than you know.”Those are powerful words from Ginny Schrappen, a kind-hearted woman who sought out -- and believed -- in the truth. Being imprisoned for a crime you didn’t commit is one of the worst things that could happen. It’s a nightmare akin to being buried alive or lost at sea.However, in those nightmare scenarios, there is no system against you, no appeals available that could save you from certain death. For Lamar Johnson, this nightmare was a reality for 28 years. The Man Who Was in Jail For Almost Three Decades After Wrongful ConvictionCourtesy of Ginny Schrappen (via: The Washington Post)Lamar was sentenced to life in prison for murdering his best friend, Marcus Boyd, in 1994. At the time, Lamar was in his early twenties and had a solid alibi. He had been with his girlfriend at the time — but the state had an eyewitness who identified him as the killer, and his fate was sealed. Then in 1996, and again in 2002, the men responsible for the murder came forward and admitted that Johnson had nothing to do with the crime. Despite this revelation, he was denied an appeal.Nevertheless, Johnson never gave up his optimistic attitude. He fought for his freedom day after day and made efforts to stay connected to the world outside of his prison walls.His sister and mother stayed in touch frequently, but Johnson wanted even more human connection. He took action, reaching out to churches in search of a pen pal who could offer him friendship and support. He found a loyal friend in Ginny Schrappen.They stayed in touch for decadesSchrappen, a retired St. Louis teacher, never doubted her friend’s innocence. When she first got Johnson’s letter from her church Deacon, the first thing that stood out to her was his penmanship.“I was blown away by his handwriting. His cursive just put me to shame.”The two hit it off in their correspondence and opened up to each other about everything they were dealing with in life. Schrappen could tell right away that Lamar was sensitive and intelligent– his personality shone through his letters. “[Schrappen] shared a lot about what was going on in her life, [I felt I could] lean on her and express how I was feeling about my situation. That drew us closer, because we had honest conversations and not surface conversations. We just connected so well.”After a few years of letters, the two graduated to correspond via telephone, and then to in-person visits. Two other members of Schrappen’s congregation frequently joined her on her visits to the prison, and they all became like family. “I remember the first time, to see somebody in person, to hug them and sit across the table from them, which is what we did, I was almost out of my skin.” Throughout all of this, Johnson was fighting hard for his freedom, and eventually a new revelation came to light that the justice system just could not ignore. Evidence against Lamar was falsifiedCourtesy of Ginny Schrappen (via: The Washington Post)In 2019, it was revealed that law enforcement had falsified evidence against Lamar. Police and prosecutors had lied on reports and paid the only eyewitness against him for their testimony. The innocence project took on Lamar’s case, and he was eventually released. The organization spent years investigating the case and advocating for his release. They also raised more than $570,500 for Johnson’s post-prison life. Schrappen was right there when he was releasedCourtesy of Ginny Schrappen (via: The Washington Post)Over the years, Schrappen was present at all of Johnson’s legal proceedings. “I always told him, ‘Lamar, I’ll be there,’ I was one of the people that kept him connected to the world.” - Grace SchrappenShe was also right there when he was released and they were able to hug, and he thanked her for being a lifeline all of these years. The human connection he got from his friend kept him feeling grateful.“If you hold onto anger, you’re just going to swap one prison for another. As much as there were a lot of setbacks over the years, there is a lot to be happy and grateful for.”Their differences didn’t stop them from being friendsCourtesy of Ginny Schrappen (via: The Washington Post)Both Johnson and Schrappen hope their story inspires others to look past first impressions and dig deeper when meeting people– you never know the impact your connection could have. “Reach out to somebody that might need a friend. It could mean more than you know.” When is the last time you've trusted your gut and reached out to somebody that might need a shoulder to lean on? You never know what type of impact it can have.

The YMCA in Cleveland Is Helping Recovering Addicts Stay off Drugs Youll Be Shocked When You Find Out How
Success Stories

The YMCA in Cleveland Is Helping Recovering Addicts Stay off Drugs Youll Be Shocked When You Find Out How

On any given Sunday afternoon in Cleveland Ohio, an unassuming theater in the Gordon Square Arts District is filled with eager patrons, while actors prepare for a show backstage.They undergo the typical pre-show rituals, gathering as a group, shaking out their jitters, and huddling to share one last prayer of encouragement. These actors, however, aren't like others typically in theater.Before hitting the stage, these actors also recite a serenity prayer common in recovery groups-- “One foot in for the ones still sick and suffering.” The "Weird" YMCA For the past 24 years, clients from Y-Haven, a recovery program for adults experiencing homelessness and addiction in Cleveland, Ohio, have processed their recovery through the performing arts. The Y-Haven office and residential building is on the eastern side of Cleveland. Formerly a public housing building built in the 1960s, the site was occupied by Y-Haven 26 years ago, three years after the group's founding. The YMCA parent organization has eleven branches across Greater Cleveland and many more across the United States but, “We are kind of the weird one,” explains Ed Gemerchak, vice president of behavioral health for the YMCA and executive director of Y-Haven, “Not many YMCAs do something like this.”Initially, Y-Haven focused on serving men experiencing homelessness but is now primarily a residential treatment facility for both men and women with substance abuse problems. “We're a little more focused on doing that clinical service,” says Ed. “And we've expanded our reach and our size. I think our budget's about tripled over the last seven years. Our staff has nearly tripled because there's such a need here.”Tony Serna, Director of Homeless Clinical Services at Y-Haven, says, “We've always considered ourselves a holistic program.” This quality distinguishes Y-Haven from the many other recovery programs in Ohio and beyond. Part of this holistic approach is the innovative performing arts practice that sets Y-Haven apart.“I’ve Never Had Anybody Clap for Me”(FreshWater Cleveland)The initiative is a collaboration between Y-Haven and Cleveland Public Theater, the latter of which was formed in 1981 by James Levin with the mission of "raising consciousness and nurturing compassion" through theater. For the last 24 years this has included the Y-Haven project and it is easy to see why.When Chip Joseph, Y-Haven’s former director, attended CPT’s rendition of Shakespeare in the Park, he immediately felt that Y-Haven clients belonged on stage. A personal friend of Levin, Chip insisted, “You have to do this!” -- referring to a partnership. Many of the actors who participate in the program have never set foot on a stage before, or considered themselves someone who might. For example, one participant-- Samantha-- said, “I've never had anybody clap for me. I was never in sports, so to get a standing ovation was awesome.” Another participant, Adam, shared “I had this inclination towards creative arts my entire life and I just didn't know where to apply myself.” He used the Y-Haven program to act on this instinct and self actualize in a powerful way. The most recent production was a play titled In Our Wake, led by Melissa Crum. The play tells the story of the main character, Amari, as she searches for forgiveness and reconciliation following the death of her mother. According to a write-up on the play, "Amari represents, not one singular experience, but a collection of memories threaded through the lives of the cast, a diverse group of men and women."It’s All About Process(YMCA)However, the process of rehearsal and development of the play is just as valuable as the final performance. “We kind of put them through all the theater training you could imagine,” says Crum, “just telling stories and sharing stories and hearing where they're coming from and what's important to them and what they want to say.” “One of the gifts of art itself,” she says, “is this ability to dive deeper into yourself.” In this way, the production became a vital part of the larger rehabilitative program, an avenue for powerful therapeutic work. Y-Haven in Cleveland is a shining example of new avenues for introspection, healing, and growth through art. It is also an example of redemption, offering those in recovery a chance to participate in a world of performing arts they might not have imagined themselves a part of. The program offers audiences and performers a powerful new perspective, and hopefully inspires others like it.

11-Year-Old Girl Who Sings in 8 Different Languages Becomes Youngest Opera Singer in the World
Success Stories

11-Year-Old Girl Who Sings in 8 Different Languages Becomes Youngest Opera Singer in the World

Since Victory Brinker was a toddler, it was clear she had a special gift. It didn't take long for her to hone this gift either, and at just 7 years and 314 days old, she became the Guinness World Record holder for youngest opera singer after participating in eight professional performances.However, that isn't the only remarkable talent of Victory's. Impressively, she also serenades audiences in over seven different languages. On 6 July 2021, the young vocalist made history by becoming the first-ever America's Got Talent contestant to receive a unanimous 'Golden Buzzer' from all four judges during her performance of "Juliet’s Waltz"."I was an early talker and started singing at age two. Between age two and three, I was memorizing entire CDs with good pitch. I was always singing" Victory told Guinness. Initial Interest Led to Hard Work(Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)Her opera singing, however, began when Victory asked her mom to show her singers hitting high notes, just two days before her sixth birthday. Victory realized she was drawn to the vocal range of opera, and quickly became enamored by operatic arrangements and technique.Her journey wasn't without hard work, either. Victory meets with a coach once or twice a week to learn new pieces and languages. In addition, she practices with her mother daily, for about an hour. "My mom taught me how to sing and helps me believe I can do anything," Victory shared. All of her hard work has certainly payed off, and Victory has a slew of high profile performances under her belt. Family First(Billboard)In March 2022, Victory participated in the Italian television show Lo Show Dei Record, a program where contestants take a shot at Guinness World Records in front of an audience. However, before she hit the stage, she was already a record holder!Victory has also appeared on NBC’s Little Big Shots, Dr. Phil, Wonderama and is a frequent anthem singer for the NBA, NFL, and MLB organizations. This past holiday season, she even released her very first album, The Wonder of Christmas.Before she had an audience to sing in front of, her family formed her foundational support network. Victory even joked, "sometimes my siblings get a little tired of me always singing and set up my bed with a stuffed animal audience, so I will practice in my bedroom."Her parent's, however, are symbols of unwavering support, and Victory is evidence of what the support can lead to. "When we believe in our children, they believe in themselves and can change the world," said Christine, Victory's mother.Dreams Beyond a Childhood in Opera Christine maintains that her daughter's success has been due her own goal setting, and views the parental support merely as encouragement. The drive comes from Victory, who has incredible parents to nurture her passion. Victory has no intention of slowing down, either. "I would like to try to break the record for highest vocal note by a child…or maybe even an adult!" Victory told Guinness. She also has dreams of breaking into acting, in addition to furthering her piano and singing abilities. Not even a teenager yet, Victory is an inspiration to others her age, as well as anyone chasing a dream. She hopes her achievements will inspire others."You can do it! Just do it one time and you’ll see it’s not so bad," she said on the matter. "I tell myself to give it my all and have fun, and I do!"

This Couple Bought and Revamped an Abandoned Laundromat Now Its a Thriving Community Hub With Free Laundry Days
Success Stories

This Couple Bought and Revamped an Abandoned Laundromat Now Its a Thriving Community Hub With Free Laundry Days

When Covid-19 decided to throw a giant wrecking ball into our lives, no one saw it coming. Life as we knew it literally changed overnight, tumbling our worlds upside down and inside out.Covid changed a lot of things for a lot of people. Including Jon and Erin Carpenter.If someone would have told them two years ago that today they would be the proud owners of a laundromat, they probably would have thought they were crazy. Yet, if someone would have told us that the entire world would be shut down because of a global pandemic, we would have thought they were crazy too. And yet, here they are.How One Couple's Journey to Laundromat Ownership Unfolded(ABC)Back in 2020, right smack dab in the middle of covid, Jon and Erin got married. They decided that the most Covid-friendly honeymoon would be to rent a camper van and cruise up Highway 1 along the pacific west coast. And that's where laundromats come in. "We saw all different types of laundromats and all different types of people that go to laundromats," Jon told GMA. "We would see some really cool ones that were ... in higher-end locations and they would have brew on tap and have all this stuff for those areas, but when we would be in certain areas of towns that weren't necessarily higher income, they would be run-down, like they were neglected and left behind."They also saw the incredible community laundromats provide. A gathering place for people of all ages who would often spend hours each week together. A seed was born.They Transform a Laundromat AND a CommunityAfter their honeymoon, the couple settled in Charleston, South Carolina. They wanted to get involved in the community somehow and that's when Jon became "obsessed" with laundromats.He found one for sale in a largely abandoned area of Charleston. The old laundromat had a "bustling business" but had fallen into disrepair with broken machines and a general air of neglect. However, instead of seeing a dilapidated building, the couple saw potential.As veteran renovators of previous projects, including a bed and breakfast, they weren't afraid to get dirty. "Our thought is, if we can bring in [Erin's] design skills, bring some technology, fix some things, and renovate, it will not only be something amazing for the community, but maybe it'll be a good business too," Jon said. "So that was our hope."So, they put it all on the line and took the leap. They spent six months getting to know the business and figuring out a renovation plan. On New Year's Day, they closed for renovations.It took three months, but as of the end of March, the renovation is complete. And it is...WOW. The Amazing Transformation: From Ordinary to ExtraordinaryIn a video that has gone viral with over 12M views, the Carpenters give a 30-second glimpse into the amazing transformation from start to finish.The couple's vision went far beyond mere laundry facilities. They transformed the laundromat into a multifunctional space, carefully considering the needs and interests of the community and their customers. And while the laundromat is indeed stunning, it's about so much more than just clean clothes.Because the couple didn't just create a beautiful space, they created a beautiful sense of community as well. "There's so many hours spent there, so it felt really important to make the space comfortable, clean, and safe," said Erin. "There is the functional aspect of needing to do laundry, but also like families are spending time there—moms are tired and they're waiting and you want to give them a comfy couch to sit on instead of a broken bench. We want to give kids something to do, somewhere to play."Jon and Erin took their venture beyond a simple business operation and turned it into a hub that fosters connection, support, and a sense of belonging among the locals. And their customers, and netizens, are loving it.More than 6K people have commented on the video, writing:"Wonderful! I can’t explain to people how laundromats become so important to communities.""And safe place for community to take place that has reliable washers, tv, and places to sit!!! Not just a place to leave laundry and go!""Laundromats are so vital to communities! No one realizes how important they are until they use one themselves." Giving Back to the CommunityIn addition to providing a much-needed service in their community, the Carpenters also partnered with a local charity, the Lowcountry Blessing Box Project, and provide free laundry days. The couple said they have already received enough requests and donations to start hosting multiple free laundry days a month at Reynolds Laundromat.What started as a neglected laundromat has been transformed into an incredible community hub that serves as a shining example of the positive impact that small-scale initiatives can have on a community."Let's really harness that and really think community-forward specifically and see where that can take us," Erin said. "Because if anything, [the laundromat] has brought to our attention that people want that. People are craving that community and we want to give it to them."

Defying Evil: The Heroic Man Who Secretly Saved 669 Jewish Children from Nazi Death Camps
Everyday Heroes

Defying Evil: The Heroic Man Who Secretly Saved 669 Jewish Children from Nazi Death Camps

More than 6,000 people are now alive because of one man. Nicholas Winton never expected to see such a sight. Seated in the front row, he was stunned as dozens of people stood up all around him. They started to clap. Winton started to cry.No one was ever supposed to know. The humble man had never told anyone, not even his wife. But those people standing around him clapping—they were the children, all grown now, that he had saved from Nazi death camps.A Jewish Child Saved Hundreds of Jewish Childrennicholaswinton.comBorn in 1909 in London to Jewish parents, the family had changed their last name from "Wetheim" to "Winton" (and converted to Christianity) in an attempt to fully fit into their new home country. The rest of life would also be a study in contrast. He became a stockbroker, despite embracing left-wing socialist values. He would engage in dangerous, heroic acts and tell no one about them.At the end of 1938, Winton had scheduled a skiing holiday in Switzerland. A call from peers at the British Committee for Refugees from Czechoslovakia changed his mind. In a hotel dining room, they compiled lists of Jewish families at risk. The work was preliminary, but after Winton returned to London, the British Parliament passed an act that allowed Jewish refugees under the age of 17 to be admitted to the country, as long as they had a place to stay and could pay a security deposit of 50 pounds for their eventual removal from the country. The problem was, the Netherlands had officially closed their borders to Jewish refugees. Any that were found were returned to Germany. But Winton persisted and managed to secure guarantees for the children’s safety. Slowly but surely, he and his colleagues in Prague moved 669 Jewish children from Czechoslovakia to Britain by train. In England, Winton’s mother rushed to find host families and hostels for the children. Winton filled out piles of paperwork to fulfill legal requirements. He wrote to politicians in other countries, including the United States, urging them to take responsibility and save more children. Only Sweden agreed.A 50-Year-Old Remarkable Secretnicholaswinton.comAnd then disaster struck. On September 1, 1939, with Hitler’s invasion of Poland, World War II officially began. Two hundred and fifty Jewish children, scheduled to leave on a train that day from Prague, were stopped and prevented from leaving. Only two of them would survive the war.But in Britain and Sweden, 669 children owed their lives to the operation that would later be called the Czech "Kindertransport." Despite his praiseworthy efforts, the operation was largely forgotten. Winton himself kept it a secret for nearly 50 years. He would go on to work for the Red Cross and the Royal Air Force. It was while working for the International Refugee Organization that he met his future wife, Grete Gjelstrup. The couple had three children.And then, one day, Grete found Winton’s notebooks in the attic. They contained lists of Czech children’s names as well those of their parents. There were documents that showed in which families the children had been placed. Grete confronted her husband, and they agreed to give the records to Holocaust researcher Elizabeth Maxwell.Recognition long deserved That’s when the BBC television program "That’s Life!", invited him to the studio office. On the program, the host Esther Rantzen showed Winton’s scrapbooks and recognized his efforts. Then she asked a simple but shocking question: "Was anyone in the audience one of the children who Nicholas Winton had saved?"Dozens of people stood up all around him. Winton looked around in disbelief and started to cry. Then the host asked another question, "Was anyone in the audience a child or grandchild of one of the children Winton had saved?"At that, the entire rest of the audience stood up. Finally, the secret was out. And finally, Winton could see just what a tremendous impact his work had had, not only for those children but for generations to come.nicholaswinton.comThe British press at the time nicknamed Nicholas Winton “the British Schindler” for the meticulous lists that he kept that had allowed for the safe evacuation of so many children. It was just the beginning of the well-deserved recognition that he would receive over the rest of his long life. Fifteen years after that show premiered, Winton was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in honor of his “services to humanity”. He was also awarded the Order of the White Lion – the Czech Republic’s highest honor. He died one year later at the age of 106.Seeing that entire audience stand up around him so touched Winton that he, like many viewers, was moved to tears. It’s a reminder of the exponential effects of individuals doing good in the world.

9-Year-Old From Harlem Defies All Odds and Becomes the Poet Laureate of New York State
Success Stories

9-Year-Old From Harlem Defies All Odds and Becomes the Poet Laureate of New York State

Powerful words have the ability to shed boundaries and bring people together. One 9-year-old from Harlem shared some words that will echo for generations to come.At the end of 2022, Kayden Hern was at the Apollo Theatre in New York City. He was told there would be a special guest for amateur night so Kayden waited by the doors in hopes to get a picture. The special guest: Kathy Hochul, New York Governor candidate. Kayden Meets the Governor(YT)Upon arrival, Kathy noticed the boy waiting eagerly amongst the crowd. She decided to stop and ask him a few questions. “There’s a long line around the block, and I saw this young man standing there.” Kathy recalled, “I said, ‘You’re going in to watch somebody?’ He says, ‘No, I’m a poet. I’m going to go recite.”Kathy then asked Kayden to recite one of his poems, expecting him to pull out a piece of paper. Kayden didn’t need help, he had a beautiful poem memorized and recited on the spot.“I was excited,” Kayden remembers, “Yeah, because at the Apollo, I just wanted to take a picture with her.” Blown away by Kayden’s words, Kathy made a promise that would soon change the young man’s life. The governor promised him she would invite him to speak at her inauguration as her poet laureate if she was elected. She was elected and kept her word.At the Governor’s inauguration, Kayden performed an original piece titled, “In My Mind”.In my mind, I used to be a child of poverty, not knowing that hopes and dreams can become reality. In my mind, I thought it was fine to sit in the back of the classroom because my teacher never asked me to read or write. But little did she know I was ever so bright.His words received a roaring ovation from the New York crowd. Listeners were pleasantly surprised by the viewpoint of a young man from their city. Perhaps Kayden didn’t even understand the power his short poem could have.Finding Inspiration in FamilyKayden’s poem “In My Mind” was heavily influenced by his grandmother Jackie Hern. Kayden began writing poetry with his grandmother during the pandemic. “During the pandemic and homeschooling in 2020, I had a lot of free time to write my poems.” Kayden said, “I was asking my grandmother a lot of questions. She told me to write down my thoughts and she wrote down some of her thoughts, that eventually became the poem.”The words of a young man were the glue for the inauguration of a governor. Kayden is grateful for the opportunity given to him by Kathy Hochul and is eager to put together new material.Nowadays, Kayden is somewhat of a celebrity around Harlem. His school honoured him as the poet laureate and his classmates even asked him to sign their backpacks. Kayden and Jackie constructed their experiences and hardships in a manner that’s relatable and powerful. The product they came up with was a beautiful poem that shed boundaries and resonated with anyone listening.

Man Forced to Become Trash Collector When No College Would Accept Him - Then, His Brother Drops Out and Makes a Huge Sacrifice
Success Stories

Man Forced to Become Trash Collector When No College Would Accept Him - Then, His Brother Drops Out and Makes a Huge Sacrifice

Rehan Staton used to collect trash for a living. Next month he's graduating from Harvard Law School. It was an Ivy League dream he never would have achieved on his own and now he's giving back to those in the industry that helped make it a reality.Staton, 27, recently co-founded a non-profit that raises money to support janitors and other support staff. Its goal is to honor and recognize the "unsung heroes" who work behind the scenes by giving them need-based grants.So far, he's raised more than $72,000.Staton’s Road to Harvard Was Paved With AdversityStaton was just 8 years old when his mother walked out the door and out of his life. His father, forced to raise him and his brother on his own, struggled to provide for the family, often working multiple jobs just to try to pay the bills. "There were times where we just didn't have electricity," Staton told Today. "We didn't have food in the fridge."It took a heavy toll. Staton struggled academically through school and no college would accept him.With no other option, he got a job working for a sanitation company, collecting garbage and cleaning out dumpsters. But it turns out that while he was picking up trash, his co-workers, most of whom were formerly incarcerated, were picking him up.For the first time, he had a community rally around him and it made all the difference."It was the first time in my life a group of people really just empowered me, uplifted me, told me I was intelligent. I believed in the hype, and I was ready to go to school," he said.His brother agreed, going so far as to sacrifice his own college education to make it happen. Already attending Bowie State University, Reggie dropped out so he could help their dad and Rehan could go to college.Once Denied Entrance to Every College He Applied To, Staton Goes to HarvardStaton excelled at the University of Maryland even after his dad suffered a stroke and he had to juggle working back at his old job with his studies in order to help his brother save their home.He would go to work at 4 a.m. and then attend classes, often still wearing his yellow uniform when there was no time to shower.In 2018 he graduated with an undergraduate degree in history. And in 2020, he was accepted into Harvard.His inspirational story made national headlines and caught the attention of media mogul Tyler Perry who ended up funding Staton's Harvard tuition.“He had a tough upbringing but worked hard at a tireless job to eventually reach his goal,” Perry wrote in a statement to the Washington Post. “He deserved being able to attend Harvard the last few years without having any future financial concerns.”How a Former Trash Collector Paid It Forward Through it all, Staton never forgot his roots. So, a year ago, when a Harvard janitor responded to him asking how she was with: “I’m sorry – I didn’t know you were talking to me. Students would usually rather look at the wall than talk to me,” Staton knew he had to do something.He responded by using his savings from working as a summer associate at a law firm to buy Amazon gift cards for 100 Harvard Law School support staff members. He personally delivered each one inside a handwritten thank you card. “I remember what it’s like working that type of job,” said Staton.“When I see them, I see me,” he continued. “I view them as my equal. They are just my peers.” And he wants others to see them the same way.With financial backing from his former employer, Bates Trucking & Trash Removal, Staton also started the non-profit organization, the Reciprocity Effect. Its mission is to "honor support staff affiliated with educational institutions and corporations and aid those affected by personal hardships and catastrophes."An Amazing Full Circle Moment for a Trash Collector Turned Harvard GradTo date, the Reciprocity Effect has raised over $70K and more than $100K in pledges. To celebrate the launch of the non-profit, Staton and Bates held an awards ceremony to honor 30 Harvard support staffers. They handed out gift cards and customized trophies. More than 160 people attended, cheering them on.It's just the beginning.Staton — who will be working at a law firm in New York City after graduation — told the Post that he hopes to expand the initiative beyond Harvard to educational institutions across the country. He wants support staffers everywhere to feel valued and seen. Staton's journey from trash collector to Harvard graduate speaks to the incredible power of community. If it hadn't been for the support of his former colleagues, he never would have achieved his goals.It is something that he will always be grateful for and he plans on spending a lifetime giving back to those who lifted him up and changed his life.“No one does it alone,” said Staton. “Just keep paying it forward.”