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Woman Visits Her Parents at Retirement Community - Decides to Move in at 32 Years Old
Uplifting News

Woman Visits Her Parents at Retirement Community - Decides to Move in at 32 Years Old

We often hear the benefits of a retirement community for older people, who enjoy the social aspects of those kinds of living situations. But a 32-year-old woman is reminding everyone that all people can benefit from the structure and support of community — no matter how old or young you are.An Unexpected MoveIn 2021, a woman named Liz White visited her parents at a retirement community in Naples, Florida. Her retired parents spent their winters there, and White liked the building and community so much that when an apartment freed up in the same building, she decided to move in.According to CNBC, the average age of people living in that building at the time was 55 years old. Liz was by far the youngest. That first year, the customer success manager paid roughly $2,000 in monthly rent for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment. Later, when her landlord put the unit up for rent, White’s parents decided to buy it.Apartments in the area can go for up to $1 million, but White didn’t contribute financially. Instead, she lives in the apartment and takes care of it. When her parents are in town, they also stay with her.The young woman's biggest takeaway after moving in was how much she learned to interact with people on a daily basis and how good it's been for her.“When you live somewhere where you’re not around people, you can keep to yourself, and now, I have to be ready because I might have a conversation at any time,” White explained to CNBC. “It was an adjustment at first but it’s become a joy of my life.”Facing Hard TimesWhite’s parents had only owned the apartment for about three months when Hurricane Ian flooded it. It was a devastating and stressful time for the family, who had to decide whether to sell the unit or completely remodel it.In the end, they decided they liked the community too much and wanted to reconstruct it. It was a hard path since they’d lost pretty much everything, and it took almost a year to finish the massive project.It was during that time, however, that White realized the true power of her community. She rented from another neighbor during the remodel and recalls someone telling her that she would laugh at the situation one day.“I felt like it was the worst part of my life forever, but at the end of the day, I got through it,” she told CNBC. “It’s been really good to have that sense of community and have people to grow you with different perspectives in life. It’s also made me more open to meeting new people and not sweating the small stuff,” she continued.“Life is hopefully going to be long and there’s a lot of phases to it. If you’re going through one hard phase, it’s not going to be forever.”There’s No Place Like HomeLiving in the community, White added how she’d made friends of all ages, including people her own age, and has experienced many great adventures as a result. It just goes to show you that community is what we make it, and we get what we put in.While certain retirement communities have age restrictions, White’s story also serves as a powerful reminder that home is what you make it. You don’t necessarily need a fancy big house or solo living to be successful. Multigenerational living is also a successful way of life, especially when you consider the collective power of all that wisdom you gain by living with others.After all, Liz herself said it best: “I don’t just have to be friends with people who have lived the same kind of life I’ve lived.”More from Goalcast:Time to Do the “Crazy Things”: 77-Year-Old Throws a Big Wedding and Marries HerselfThese 55-Year-Old (Plus) Women Have Their Own Cheerleading Group – Proving Age Is Just Another Number93-Year-Old Sneaks Out of Retirement Home and Hitches a Ride With Stranger – All for His Girlfriend

Bank Evicts 90-Year-Old Veteran From His Home of 60 Years - But a Stranger Wasnt Going to Keep Quiet
Everyday Heroes

Bank Evicts 90-Year-Old Veteran From His Home of 60 Years - But a Stranger Wasnt Going to Keep Quiet

For nearly 60 years, Johnnie Hodges Sr. called house #369 on Humboldt Parkway in Buffalo, New York, home. It's where he and his wife, Flora, raised their two children (Robin and Johnnie Jr.) and watched those children raise children of their own. And, after a lifetime of memories, it’s where he said his final goodbye to his beloved wife of 67 years.But priceless memories don't pay bills and banks never forget. So when 90-year-old Johnnie fell behind on his mortgage payment after incurring more than $73,000 in medical bills for his wife's Alzheimer's, he was evicted. Bank Evicts 90-Year-Old War VeteranAfter the war, Johnnie worked at Bethlehem Steel for decades, where he was the first African-American foreman before the company shut down the plant. He then worked part-time as a bus driver before retiring in his 80s to become Flora's full-time caregiver.It was during this time, living on a fixed income and with bills mounting, that his finances spiraled out of control and his house went into foreclosure. According to the owner of the mortgage, M&T Bank, they tried for four years to evade eviction. But eventually, they were left without options.“Under the rules that govern FHA mortgages such as this one, we went far above and beyond what was required, but there was nothing else we could do,” C. Michael Zabel, vice president of corporate communications at M&T, said in a statement. On July 9, the police showed up at Johnnie's door, eviction notice in hand.But Johnnie wasn't about to go without a fight. Finally, after a two-hour standoff, officers carried him out on a stretcher. His possessions were packed up and put into storage. A Stranger Rallies the TroopsGreg Elwood of Williamsville, New York, heard about Johnnie on the local news. Despite never having met him, his story struck a deep chord.Greg, 41, immediately knew he had to do something to help. But he knew he couldn't do it all on his own. So, he created a GoFundMe campaign to raise $50,000 to help get Johnnie back home.“He fought for us in WWII and now he needs our help to fight for his home!” Greg wrote on the page. As more and more news networks picked up the story, donations started pouring in. "We even received a donation from a 6 yr. old who raised the money at a lemonade stand," Greg wrote in an update. Four months and 2,000 donations later, more than $110,000 was raised — enough to buy back the house AND pay for some much-needed repairs."Our original goal was $50,000, that was the amount that Robin needed to purchase the home back," Greg told ABC News. "It's just a wonderful feeling to know that he'll be back in that home to be able to celebrate the holidays with the family. He has a lot of memories in that home. It's very clear he was close with his late wife Flora and I just feel good knowing that he's at peace."WWII Veteran Returns Home to a Hero’s WelcomeOn November 6, Johnnie finally returned home. The whole neighborhood came out to welcome him back, including elected officials and members of The Patriot’s Guard Riders, a motorcycle club.There was even a ribbon-cutting ceremony."I'm very happy to be back...and spend Christmas with my family in my home," Johnnie told ABC News. "There's nothing like being with your family. This is a beautiful home I have and it really is a pleasure to be here."As for Greg, he may have started out as a stranger but he's not anymore. He's become a treasured friend of the family's.And while he's undoubtedly the hero, he's not here for the credit. He just hopes that his actions will inspire others to see the power we all have to truly make a difference, together."My hope is that this campaign serves as an example of the great things that happen when people come together." Greg ElwoodMore from Goalcast:Couple Passes by Homeless Man Who Has Lived on the Streets for 3 Years – Decide to Give Him a Christmas He’ll Never ForgetMan Shows Up to a Pub to Play a Gig – Bumps Into a Famous Musician Who Helps Him Buy a HomeHomeless Student Nurse Couch Surfs to Survive–but Christmas Came Early When She Wins $6M Home in Lottery

Upset Neighbor Asks Woman to Take Down Her Lawn Decorations - The Security Camera Catches the Entire Exchange
Uplifting News

Upset Neighbor Asks Woman to Take Down Her Lawn Decorations - The Security Camera Catches the Entire Exchange

Halloween isn't just for kids; in fact, it's one of the few holidays adults get to kick back and join in on the fun. It's no surprise that Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any of the other big holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year or...the most stressful. Between 4 hour turkey dinners, extended family overstaying their welcome, and trying to find time after work to wrap presents, it can be expensive and a lot of effort, that leaves you more depleted than replenished. Halloween however, has all the excitement and none of the pressure! You can participate or sit out, at your own leisure. For people of all ages, Halloween can be one of the best times of the year, because it encourages everyone to embrace their creativity and transform into imaginative characters; from spooky monsters to beloved pop culture icons and everything in between. For so many, the excitement of trick-or-treating or seeing your neighborhood adorned with ghoulish decorations is the best part.But for one "Halloween Lover," who transformed her family home for the festivities -- her eye-catching efforts were met with backlash from one neighbor, who showed up at her door unannounced.Looking At Her Front Yard Halloween Decorations? It Didn’t Make Sense…Salena Webb, a self-proclaimed Halloween enthusiast hailing from Duncan, South Carolina, displayed her passion for the holiday this year by adorning her property with spooky decorations as early as September. The mother of 4, who is pregnant with her fifth child, expresses her creativity in all sorts of way, even taking to TikTok to share her gardening tips!With a love for all things design, it's no surprise Webb's front lawn featured an impressive array of Halloween decor, including a massive spider web, tombstones, and two skeletons bearing a coffin. While Webb was proud of her eerie decorations, they inadvertently sparked an unusual encounter with her neighbor across the street: the adult son of an elderly Russian couple arrived at her doorstep with a surprising request.Her Front Door Security Camera Caught the Whole ThingAfter the shocking interaction, Webb took to TikTok to share her story with her followers and friends alike. The exchange was captured by her Ring security camera and her post received 1.2 million views in less than a week. "He starts to tell me that his father was diagnosed with lung cancer," Webb said of her unexpected conversation with her neighbor. "And then he started to talk about my Halloween decorations. I'm like, 'What do my decorations really have to do with this?'" While it's clear in the video above, Webb wasn't sure what to make of the seemingly odd request in the moment, but upon reflection, more became clear. "This guy is dealing with mortality," Webb realized, when she recalled her neighbor specifically pointed out the wooden casket in her yard. In a follow-up video, Webb pointed out that the elderly man often sits in his garage, directly across the street from the coffin decoration.After giving it thought, Webb decided it was a no-brainer. She took the offending decoration down, prioritizing one stranger's mental health over her own ego. The fierce expecting mama of 4, captioned the video that she "can now understand why they were a little touchy" about her graveyard decor, but her hashtag #loveyourneighbourasyourself that bookends her caption, has the final word. It says it all.When You Don’t Know What to Do, Pause and Reflect, the Answers Will ComeSometimes, when we're taken off guard or caught up in a moment, it can be difficult to know how to react. When her neighbor came knocking at her door, asking her to take down her decorations, Salena Webb didn't quite make the connection at first, as to why her help was important...and understandably so. Life never stops, especially when you're a parent! It's not easy to balance your own schedule and be responsible for your family's schedule, while still trying to make the little moments (like decorating the house for Halloween) count! For this one mom, she put so much effort into making the occasion special for not only her own family, but the whole neighborhood and it would have been easy to dismiss her one neighbor's feelings as overly-sensitive. After all, it's her property and what about every other house on the street? Why should she be the only one who has to concede to her neighbor's wishes?Part of growing up, is knowing when another person's feelings are more important than your freedoms. In fact, it's a big part. Yes, Salena could have respectfully declined her neighbor's request to remove her "morbid" decorations from her lawn and that would have been perfectly OK. She could have even been irritated by his request, and called a friend down the street and asked if the "crazy neighbor" showed up at her door yet. But she didn't do any of those things. She paused and reflected. She sat with her feelings around a delicate situation (on both sides), and that made all the difference. She came to the conclusion that respected her neighbor's struggle. Kindness and compassion won. And when that happens? Everybody wins.

Disabled Woman Receives a Rude Note From a Neighbor About Her Yard - So One Woman Secretly Goes Over to Her House
Uplifting News

Disabled Woman Receives a Rude Note From a Neighbor About Her Yard - So One Woman Secretly Goes Over to Her House

We never truly know what someone else is going through, which is why it’s important to lead with kindness. That’s especially relevant when you’re upset about a situation and holding someone to your own personal standard. Rather than judge or make someone feel bad, sometimes it’s better to ask questions and find ways to help.An Angry NeighborAn anonymous neighbor in Billerica, Massachusetts was less than thrilled with the way Kristene Whitehouse was upkeeping her yard last fall. Even though the woman was trying her best to keep the leaves on her half-acre property in check, it was hard.You see, Whitehouse has numerous disabilities, including several missing fingers. She’s also on a fixed income, which makes hiring someone impossible. Still, she did her best and had spent hours one particular Saturday filling three sacks with leaves.It didn’t make much of a dent, and apparently, one neighbor was upset about that because Whitehouse received a note in her mailbox shortly afterward.“Clean up your yard leaves!! They blow all around,” the note read.Standing Up for HerselfWhitehouse was devastated, but she decided to turn the moment into an educational one. So she went on social media and shared a post explaining her situation.“I debated whether I should post this or not,” she wrote on a Billerica Facebook group page. “This is not the first such letter I’ve received over the years nor will it be the last.”The woman explained her disability and fixed income and reasoned the note was uncalled for. After all, she was doing her best.“I cannot physically do all the yard work, and I cannot afford to hire anyone,” she continued. “I will not apologize. I deserve to live here as much as the next person. You make it so I don’t feel like trying to care about the yard anymore. Merry Christmas.”A Community RespondsA woman named Cheryl Wesinger, who lives down the street from Whitehouse, decided she wanted to do something about the situation. The Facebook post had upset her, and she didn’t want her neighbor to feel alone.“I didn’t even tell Kris,” she recalled to NBC News. “I just went over, and I did her whole side of her yard with my lawnmower and bagged up all the leaves as much as I could before it got dark.”Wesinger planned to return the next day, but when a family situation kept her at home, she called upon her friend Mary Leach, who heads up the local Beautify Billerica group. Leach asked the community for volunteers.“People in the neighborhood know her,” neighbor Jillian Freitas also told NBC News.“They know that she has disabilities, and to go and do that is really low, especially at this time of the year.”By the following weekend, about a dozen volunteers had come together to collect nearly 80 bags of yard waste from Whitehouse’s property. They also trimmed her hedges and, most importantly, showed the woman that she was respected and valued.“I'm so grateful and so humbled ... just in awe,” she said.Creating CommunityWhile this story certainly reminds us of the importance of compassion and kindness, it also reminds us just how powerful a community can be when it comes together to support and uplift.Helping others and lending a hand to a greater cause is something all of us can do within our own communities, whether it’s helping a neighbor during a difficult period or watching out for one another’s children.Knowing that no one is perfect and everyone needs help once in a while is a great motivator to pitch in when we can. And even more importantly, this story reminds us that when we do see someone struggling, helping rather than judging can go a really long way.More from Goalcast:Careless Driver Doesn’t Care About Blocking Handicapped Woman’s Parking Spot – This Conflict Drives Her to ActionTeen With Disability Works at Pizza Joint – Is Speechless After Customer Gives Him $5 Tip Then Changes His MindWoman Tried to Hide Her Hearing Aids – Until Her Son Inspired Her to Embrace Her Disability

Man With Special Needs Nearly Loses Home After All His Family Members Pass Away - So His Neighbors Devise a Plot
Uplifting News

Man With Special Needs Nearly Loses Home After All His Family Members Pass Away - So His Neighbors Devise a Plot

Life can be full of challenges, with plenty of ups and downs to face as we push through the years. For some, though, those challenges are harder to overcome. And that’s when we rely on the kindness of community and friendships to help see us through.That was the situation for a 39-year-old New Jersey man named Lamar Harris, who almost lost his home following his father’s death.A Tough SituationHarris was dealt a tough hand in life. He was born with special needs and lost both his mom and grandmother when he was a child, reports CBS News. He grew up with his brother and father, but then tragedy struck again when Harris was an adult. He suddenly lost both remaining family members and was left holding the bill for the family home.Harris had always worked part-time jobs, cutting lawns for the neighbors and helping out where he could. But because of his situation, he was unable to hold anything full-time, and he had no way of paying the massive tax debt on his home."He cannot drive. He does not understand finances and has a very limited reading ability,” said a neighbor named Terri Fretz. “As a result of the death of his family members, his reading deficits, and his inability to understand finances, he has fallen behind in his property taxes.”A Community Comes TogetherHarris has been a fixture in his New Jersey neighborhood for years, and everyone knows him as the kind man who does what he can to get by. When neighbors heard he was in danger of losing his home because he had no way of paying, they decided to do something about it.“I've been looking after him for so many years now; he's like part of my family, and I just can't let anything happen to him,” his neighbor Tom Brake told ABC News.The neighbors created a GoFundMe page asking for help. “He has no one else and nowhere else to go,” they wrote. “We, his neighbors, have all banded together and have been watching out for Lamar since his dad died. This problem just recently came to light and is too big for just his neighbors to handle.”The initial goal was to raise $50,000 in a matter of days so that they could hit the payment deadline. Meanwhile, the mayor of Gloucester Township released a statement saying they were looking into the property and the status and care of Harris.“The current foreclosure process is the result of a private lien holder that dates back to 2015,” the office of David Mayer wrote on social media. “We will continue to research this matter to ensure the proper care of Mr. Harris.”Going Above and BeyondNot only did the community raise the required $50,000 for Harris to stay in his home, but in just 13 days, it surpassed the goal and raised $64,804. That number swelled to $75,548 before the organizers closed the page to donations.“You are all proof that kindness can make a difference in a person’s life in a big way,” Fretz wrote in an update. “[Lamar] is very grateful and understands the kindness that has been bestowed upon him... All money will be deposited into a bank account set up solely for Lamar's benefit,” she continued.“There is still good in the world. There is still hope for us all.”The Power of GivingThe kindness neighbors showed Harris in his time of need isn’t just heartwarming; it’s inspiring. These people came together and helped a neighbor on the heels of tragedy from losing even more. They made something good happen from the kindness of their hearts.It’s another reminder of the importance of community when it comes to creating social connections and bonds, as well as how powerful we can be if we work together toward a common goal. There are so many ways to participate in our own communities, from giving our time as volunteers to donating funds, clothes, food, or other items to those who may need a boost.We all go through hard times in life. But with the support of our circles, it is possible to push through.More from Goalcast:Landlord Saves Family From Homelessness After Father Lost His JobHomeless Dad Living in His Car With 2 Kids Is Fired From His Job – Then, Strangers Step in When They Hear His Request78-Year-Old Forced to Sleep Outside After Her Son-In-Law Evicts Her From Her Own Home – Her Furious Neighbors Have Had Enough

Mom Has to Raise Her Kids Alone After Her Husband Leaves Her - Then a Neighbor Gathers Courage to Knock on Her Door for This Reason
Uplifting News

Mom Has to Raise Her Kids Alone After Her Husband Leaves Her - Then a Neighbor Gathers Courage to Knock on Her Door for This Reason

Being a single mom is akin to juggling a multitude of responsibilities, with financial strains, emotional stress, and the constant balance of work and family. Mallory Mason, residing in Canton, Ohio, knows this reality all too well, having recently found herself raising her children alone after her husband left unexpectedly.Navigating the storm of single parenthood, Mallory was facing the challenges head-on, unaware that a heartwarming surprise was on the horizon. Enter John, her neighbor, whose unexpected act of kindness left Mallory and the entire community in awe.Why One Man Knocked on a Single Mom’s DoorIn a heart-touching video that has now been deleted on TikTok, Mallory captured the moment when John, with tear-filled eyes, gathered the courage to knock on her door and offered more than just sympathy. He took it upon himself to mow Mallory's lawn, a simple yet profoundly meaningful gesture that brought tears to both their eyes. The sheer unspoken understanding and support left Mallory overwhelmed with gratitude."This MAN broke my heart as he looked at me! He has tear-filled eyes and I myself couldn't help but cry! He blessed us by mowing this b*tch of a lawn. I can't thank him enough! I ran in and made cookies and Paxton painted him a picture," Mallory shared on TikTok.Struck by the genuine kindness of a neighbor in a world often clouded by challenges, Mallory decided to pay it forward. Touched by John's selfless acts, she initiated a GoFundMe campaign in his honor. Despite facing her own struggles, Mallory's heart swelled with the desire to recognize and support the person who had become a beacon of hope in her life."John had heard that my husband left me and the kids. John, out of the kindness of his heart, has been mowing my lawn. Just hoping to bless him," Mallory expressed on the GoFundMe page.How One Man Proved Small Gestures Have a Big ImpactJohn's humble act of mowing a lawn became a symbol of compassion, sparking a ripple effect of generosity. Mallory's initiative to raise funds for John gained traction as the community rallied behind the cause. It wasn't just about the lawn; it was about recognizing and celebrating the unsung heroes like John, whose empathy turned ordinary days into extraordinary ones.In a world often marred by challenges and uncertainties, John's simple act radiated kindness and showcased the power of community support. His tear-filled eyes and the sound of a lawnmower became a testament to the fact that, even in the storms of life, there are neighbors willing to share the umbrella.As Mallory's GoFundMe exceeded expectations, it became a collective celebration of compassion, proving that the smallest gestures can create a profound impact. John, the unassuming neighbor, became a symbol of hope, and Mallory's gratitude echoed the sentiments of many who had experienced unexpected kindness in their lives.In the end, this heartwarming story teaches us that, despite life's challenges, there are everyday heroes among us, ready to make a difference, one lawn at a time.More from Goalcast:Dad Dumps 80,000 Pennies in Child Support on Estranged Daughter’s Lawn – Her Response Is Absolute GoldTwo 11-Year-Olds Are Caught in the Act – “Lawnmower Man” Gifts Them New Equipment to Start a Business“Serving Those in Need”: Firefighters Mow Lawn of Unexpected 95-Year-Old Struggling to Cut His Own Grass

Postman Notices 81-Year-Old Struggling in Her Yard - So He Takes a Photo to Post Online
Uplifting News

Postman Notices 81-Year-Old Struggling in Her Yard - So He Takes a Photo to Post Online

As we age, we aren’t always able to take care of ourselves and our homes the way we used to. It can be a hard thing to accept, especially if we’re facing a big task we used to do with ease or aren’t ready to give up a home that we love.That may be the case for one Phoenix-based woman named Margo. The 81-year-old still lives at home, where special tasks can be a bit much for her. Thankfully, a kind mail carrier realized Margo’s situation and stepped in to help.A Routine DeliveryRa’sheen Turpin has worked for the US Postal Service for nine years, according to NBC News. For eight of those years, he has delivered to the same neighborhood and knows many of the residents by name.One day, he was passing by Margo’s house when he noticed she was outside hauling dead palm fronds. It was heavy work and the woman was struggling.“I saw her doing that, and I was like, ‘Oh no, she shouldn’t be doing that,’” he recalled to the news outlet. “It was just sad to see that. She had no tools that you could see.”Three years ago, Margo had suffered a bad fall and ended up in the hospital. “I do the best I can. Whatever I can do, I do,” Margo told the publication. “But I can’t do it all like I would like.”Turpin knew that Margo was having a hard time, but he also knew she wanted to keep her yard in compliance with the local regulations. So he took a photo and put a call out on social media.Answering the CallOn a local neighborhood Facebook page, residents were quick to respond to Turpin’s request for help. A woman named Samantha Young, who runs a business that offers yard work and other handy work services, showed up within hours.“You could just see that she needed help,” Young told NBC News. “It was just too big of a job. She’s probably on a fixed income and can’t afford to get her big yard done.”It was Young’s day off, so she headed over right away. Not only did the neighbor offer her services and tools for free, but she was able to get the yard cleaned up in a matter of hours.“If I had known, honestly I would have come sooner,” she said.Others were inspired by Young’s act of community and wanted to help in their own way. They couldn’t physically help, but they sent donations for the woman’s time instead.“Maybe that’ll be extra funds for somebody else’s yard,” the business owner said.Going Above and BeyondThis story resonated with so many people because it represents what community is truly about: looking out for one another and doing what we can to spread kindness and compassion. It all started with a mail carrier who recognized a need. Then, it continued with a neighbor who was able to help. And it all inspired other neighbors who wanted to contribute in their own ways, too.It’s a nice reminder to all of us that when we see a need in our own community, we shouldn’t wait for someone else to do something about it. Not when we can step in and help instead.Perhaps that means raking leaves or shoveling snow for a neighbor the next time you’re out there cleaning up your own property. Or maybe it means passing on some cookies to a neighbor the next time you whip up a batch.Whatever small contributions you decide to make to your own community, try and remember that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a really big difference in someone else’s day.More from Goalcast:Frail Elderly Woman Dines All Alone at Cracker Barrel – Then, Strangers Witness Three “Big Burly” Men Walk Up to HerWoman Sets Up a Camera at Her Elderly Mom’s House – Finds Out the Truth About Her Relationship With a Sanitation WorkerNo One Visits Lonely Elderly Couple for Months – Hearing Their Cries, a Neighbor Calls the Police

Angry Neighbors Try to Shut Down Boys Hot Dog Stand But Help Comes From an Unexpected Source
Uplifting News

Angry Neighbors Try to Shut Down Boys Hot Dog Stand But Help Comes From an Unexpected Source

Like many kids his age, 13-year-old Jaequan Faulkner wanted to have his own money to spend. He could have asked for a weekly allowance. He could have saved up his birthday money. But Jaequan wanted to earn that money — and he had an idea. The entrepreneurial young man set up a hot dog stand in front of his house.Most neighbours encouraged the boy. They commended him on his work ethic. They bought his hot dogs and wished him success. Even the local police, out on the streets of Jaequan’s neighborhood in Minneapolis, stopped by for hot dogs. After talking to the young teen, they learned that his efforts were not just to make some pocket change. He also insisted that he wanted to learn what it takes to operate a small business. The officers were impressed and shared Jaequan’s story on social media, encouraging others to support the boy.That’s when 'Mr. Faulkner’s Old Fashion Hot Dogs' became the talk of the town. The little hot dog stand suddenly got very busy. “I didn’t think it would go this far,” admits his uncle, “but I saw that he was very serious about getting started.”But Not Everyone Wanted Him to SucceedDeane BayasBut as quickly as customers poured in to support the young entrepreneur, calls were made to the city to denounce young Jaequan as operating against the law. After all, Jaequan didn’t have a permit.To every adult that once put up a lemonade stand in their childhood, that complaint might seem silly. But city officials had to take it seriously. Any food stand has to have a permit. Permits regulate where such food trucks, carts and stands can be located. They also help control for sanitary conditions and safe food handling.Still, the Minneapolis Environmental Health Director, Dan Huff, did not want to shut down Jaequan’s hot dog stand — and the boy’s dream. Instead, Huff saw it as a learning opportunity. “Let’s turn this situation around and help him become a legitimate business owner,” Huff said.The Little Hot Dog Stand That CouldThat’s when Jaequan’s dream really did come true.Huff helped the boy learn what it really takes to run a business. The director and his team pooled their own money to purchase a 10-day permit for Jaequan’s hot dog stand. They helped the boy set up a tent over his table to protect himself and his customers from the elements. They provided the boy with meat thermometers and showed him how to ensure that the hot dogs he was selling were safe for human consumption. Finally, they set Jaequan up with a hand-washing station and explained the guidelines for safe food handling.Now, the young owner-operator of 'Mr. Faulkner’s Old Fashion Hot Dogs' was running a real business. The phone calls to denounce Jaequan’s small business suddenly stopped coming in. Instead, other community organizations took notice and stepped in to make sure Jaequan’s hot dog stand, like many small businesses, didn’t fizzle out in its first year.The Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON), a nonprofit organization, offered coaching to the boy on all aspects of operating a business, from setting prices to attracting new customers to growing the business. Now, Jaequan has a proper food cart, signage and even a uniform.Hot Dogs and HappinessWhile the business seems to be taking off and the money continues to roll in, Jaequan remains humble and customer-focused. “When I see someone passing by with a frown, and I can turn that into a smile just by selling them a hot dog, that’s my reward.”The support from the community has given Jaequan’s fledgling business new wings. The young teen is more determined than ever to make his business succeed, now that he knows his community is behind him. “Can’t nobody stop you but you!” He exclaims with a big smile.When his hot dog stand was denounced to city officials, they had a choice to make. They could abide by the strict letter of the law and shut it down, or they could help the boy bring it to code. They could squash his dream or they could support it.The permit was just the beginning. It will expire, but when it does, Jaequan already has his calendar filled with new locations that have offered to host him, from the local police station to a church. Jaequan’s community wants to see its newest entrepreneur succeed.“You come out here, he’s got a smile on his face every day,” says a local police officer who works with Bike Cops for Kids. “We love this kid.”Indeed, it seems that everyone does.More from Goalcast:Woman Helps Group of Motorcyclists Who Got Into an Accident – A Year Later, They Show Up at Her Daughter’s Lemonade StandBrave Employee Is Fired After He Stands Up to the Thieves Who Stole From His Store – Outraged Strangers Have the Best ResponseWoman Finds Worn Out Paper She Can’t Understand – Turns to an Unlikely Source to Decipher a Piece of Family History

Thrift Store Manager Sifts Through Donation Clothes - Is Taken Back When Something Unexpected Falls Out of One of the Shirts
Uplifting News

Thrift Store Manager Sifts Through Donation Clothes - Is Taken Back When Something Unexpected Falls Out of One of the Shirts

*Featured image contains photo by Julia M CameronImagine finding a bundle of cash, and not just a few crumpled dollars, but a whopping $5,000. What would you do? Most people might be tempted to keep it, to rationalize that no one would ever know. But there's a thrift shop manager in the Bay Area who showed the world that kindness, pure and simple, is the path he'd choose.The day started like any other at the Pick of the Litter in Burlingame, where Oliver Jolis was managing the shop, ringing up sales, and sorting through donated items. But this ordinary day would soon take an extraordinary turn.What One Manager Found in a Bag of Donation ClothesPhoto by Karolina GrabowskaAs Jolis sifted through bags of donated clothes, money literally started falling out. A coworker, Amy Walsh, described it as, "Money just started falling out." Imagine their surprise as they witnessed cash fluttering down around them. It wasn't just a handful of bills; it was a substantial sum, a whopping $5,000 in cold, hard cash.Naturally, they were taken aback. It would have been easy to succumb to the temptation, to pocket the money and keep it a secret. But Oliver Jolis, showing the true essence of kindness and honesty, decided on a different course of action.Amidst the unexpected windfall, he discovered an old piece of paper within the bag, an old piece of car insurance information. Instead of keeping the money, Oliver and his coworkers made a remarkable decision. They embarked on a quest to find the owner of this cash, this small fortune that had inexplicably landed in their thrift store.Their journey to locate the owner was not in vain. With determination, they reached out to the woman who had donated items to the store. To ensure her identity, they asked her a series of questions. She answered them all correctly, confirming her as the rightful owner.The woman requested to remain anonymous, citing concerns for her safety and the fear of being targeted. She understood that in many situations, someone could have easily kept the money. It could have quietly slipped into the manager's pocket, and no one would have been the wiser. Yet, Oliver Jolis made a choice that would reaffirm one's faith in the inherent goodness of people."I said, 'Come on down, I've got something for you.' She came back, and I gave her $5,000 in a paper bag and said, 'Thank you for supporting us,'" Oliver recalled. It was a simple act, yet it spoke volumes about his character.How One Man Proved the Importance of IntegrityAt Pick of the Litter, Oliver Jolis has quickly become a familiar face. The thrift shop's profits contribute to the Peninsula Humane Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding homes for thousands of animals, many of whom arrive sick or injured. Oliver, himself, adopted his furry companions, Summer and Alzie.Regular customers have become friends, and the spirit of kindness and honesty reverberates through the store. San Mateo resident Trina Pierce expressed, "I wasn't surprised he found it and gave it back. We just love Oliver. The whole staff is great, but Oliver is special."That spirit of kindness infuses every corner of Pick of the Litter, enhancing not only their sales and revenue but also ensuring that countless animals find loving homes.In the anonymous woman's words, "Whatever you do in this world comes back to you ten times, be it negativity or positivity, it comes back." And it's evident that in this tale of kindness, positivity reverberated and touched the hearts of those who witnessed it.Oliver's furry friends, Summer and Alzie, serve as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and kindness. It's a reminder that a small act of goodness can create ripples of positivity in the world. Oliver's decision was not only honorable but a lesson for all of us. Kindness doesn't demand recognition or reward; it thrives in the selfless act itself.More from Goalcast:Homeless Man Returns Stranger’s Lost Check Instead of Keeping It – Their Conversation Was About to Change His LifeThree Kids Find Wallet Stuffed With $700 and Return It – Little Did They Know What Was Coming NextUnemployed Man Searches for Stranger Who Returned His $273M Lotto Ticket — and Hopes to Share His Earnings

Neighbors Call Police on Boys for Playing "Too Loudly - Shaquille ONeal Finds Out and Shows Up to Do This
Uplifting News

Neighbors Call Police on Boys for Playing "Too Loudly - Shaquille ONeal Finds Out and Shows Up to Do This

Kids can get into all kinds of trouble. They’re learning and exploring their limits, after all. But when one neighbor called the police over a group of kids playing basketball in Florida too loudly, the Gainesville Police Department decided on a very community-centric approach.Well, that approach didn’t just go viral and capture the hearts of thousands. It also resulted in a visit from a very famous basketball star.Responding to the CallPhoto by RDNE Stock projectPolice Officer Bobby White was the officer who responded to a neighborhood noise complaint one day. The caller complained that a group of kids were playing basketball too “loudly” in the streets. When White arrived, he decided it wasn’t in anyone’s interest to break up the game or scold the children. Instead, he decided to join the game and spend some time with the kids.In a dashcam video shared by the department, you can see the officer shooting hoops and encouraging the kids to participate in the game. When the game ends, the officer promises to return soon for another round.“We’re going to let kids be kids. We are going to focus on the ones that commit crimes. #HoopsNotCrime,” the department wrote in an accompanying Facebook post, as per CNN.The video quickly went viral, with many praising the department for the way it handled the situation. Shaquille O’Neal was one of them. Playing Some HoopsA few weeks later, White returned to visit the kids, but this time he brought several other police vehicles. They pulled up for their game as the kids watched.“Told you I was going to bring some backup, right?” White said. “You guys ready? Look at these big guys I brought. You sure you can take them?”The kids cheered, but nothing could have prepared them for the man who climbed out of an SUV. As Shaq himself emerged, the kids were stunned. “Oh my God, you’re huge!” one of them said of the 7-foot-1 NBA superstar.In a follow-up video posted by the department, you can see Shaq playing with the kids and offering them tips. Later, he told every kid if they could make a shot, he’d give them $100. If someone didn’t make it on the first try, he gave them another shot.Sage Life AdviceIn addition to playing with the group of kids and helping them to make memories they’ll never forget, Shaq shared some life advice. He told the kids how he has earned millions by doing three important things: respecting his peers, listening to his parents, and going to school.He said it was important to stay out of trouble but also to be true to themselves. And above all, respect their elders — especially their parents.“This is a day those kids will never forget,” the department shared in the video. “The day when Shaq rolled up to their neighborhood to play ball. All because Gainesville Police Officer Bobby White decided to handle a complaint like thousands of police officers do daily around the country.”Letting Kids Be KidsThis story hits home for so many reasons: The officer who realized these kids weren’t doing anything wrong, they were just being kids. An NBA superstar giving back. A police community coming together to give a group of children a special day. It’s also a fantastic reminder that kids can and should be kids.Sure, sometimes they can be loud, energetic, or potentially disruptive to the peace on a quiet neighborhood street. But the kids in this story were doing something positive with their time: playing a game that promotes physical and mental health while also learning about sportsmanship, teamwork, winning, and losing.The officer could have broken up the game that day, but then what would the kids have done? Gotten into trouble? Who knows?It’s a reminder that sometimes it is important to let kids be kids and encourage them when they’re doing something positive rather than redirecting them. Sure, sometimes it will inconvenience you, but also consider the alternative. So let kids play on your street without complaint, or better yet, join them.There are a million other worse things they could be doing instead.More from Goalcast:5-Year-Old Girl Is Viciously Attacked by Two Dogs – Shaquille O’Neal Steps in After Hearing the Story12-Year-Old Unable to Leave the Hospital After Being Shot – So, Shaquille O’Neal Buys Him a New HouseFamily Runs Into Shaquille O’Neal at Home Depot – He Buys Them a Washer and Dryer After One Conversation