Rodney shared the woman’s story, explaining that she had been charged by a neighbor to mow her lawn, which she couldn’t afford due to her fixed income and recent hospitalization. However, she no longer needs to worry because Raising Men Lawn Care Service, the nonprofit organization run by Rodney and Terrence, will take care of her lawn for free, just as they do for others in need.
Raising Men Lawn Care Service aims to demonstrate kindness and compassion to the elderly, disabled individuals, single mothers, and veterans by providing free lawn care. It all began when Rodney noticed an elderly man struggling to mow his yard and felt compelled to help. He challenged himself to mow 40 yards for free, which eventually grew into a program involving over 400 young men and women across the United States who mow lawns for their neighbors in need.
One of their initiatives is called The 50 Yard Challenge, which encourages children and teenagers to mow 50 lawns for people in need. Participants join by posting a photo online with a sign stating, “I accept the 50 Yard Challenge.” As they reach milestones, such as mowing 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 lawns, they receive different colored shirts and even new lawnmowers. Rodney’s goal is to inspire youth to make a positive impact and avoid spending excessive time indoors playing video games.
Through the 50 Yard Challenge, young participants learn the value of kindness and service to those in need. Rodney recalls the story of a hesitant child who eventually mowed his first lawn for an elderly man. The child’s face lit up when he realized the difference he had made, and similar reactions from other kids have been heartening. The small idea has grown into an inspiring movement that reaches children nationwide and even worldwide.
Recently, Rodney embarked on a tour to mow lawns in all 50 states for those who require assistance. He requested recommendations from his followers and received numerous submissions of lawns belonging to elderly individuals, disabled persons, single mothers, and veterans. Rodney mows an average of three to four lawns per city during his tour, leaving behind cherished experiences and memories.
The journey of Rodney and Terrence serves as a reminder to everyone that they are loved and that acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of others.