He Mowed Lawns For Veterans In All 50 States, But He Was Just Getting Started

An Alabama man is being praised for giving back to veterans in a big way. Rodney Smith Jr. of Hunstville has mowed lawns for veterans in all 50 states. When he set the goal last summer, it seemed almost impossible.

But, he was determined to accomplish it. Smith used social media to find a veteran in every state. He wanted to give back to those who serve and that’s exactly what he did!

The veterans whose lawns Rodney mowed served in World War II through modern-day conflicts. He feels honored to have been able to help out veterans across the country and at all different stages of life. 

But, that’s not all he’s doing to help out his community.

RELATED: Crowd Goes Wild For WWII Veteran Who Plays National Anthem On His Harmonica

Helping The Elderly During The Pandemic

Rodney also mows lawns for the elderly, disabled, single parents, and veterans in his own community. When he’s there, he delivers food and supplies that are much needed during the coronavirus pandemic. Many people in his community donate money that he then uses to purchase hand sanitizer, fresh fruit, and other items he gives to those who can’t leave their homes.

He’s spreading so much hope that The White House took notice and tweeted about it. 

“In addition to mowing for the elderly, disabled, single mothers and veterans, free of charge, Rodney is delivering food and supplies as well.”

THANK YOU for your great service to the community! ?? https://t.co/q615nCJjkU

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 3, 2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

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This morning I had the pleasure of mowing Ms. Johnson’s lawn for her . It’s always great seeing her ! Making a difference one lawn at a time .

A post shared by Rodney Smith Jr (@rodneysmithjr) on Jun 17, 2020 at 7:45am PDT

50-Yard Challenge

That’s not all that Smith is doing. He has started an entire movement. Children across the country are taking his 50-yard challenge. They pledge to mow 50 lawns for anyone in need, including veterans, elderly, and those with disabilities. Smith said “he was just a man on a mission from God.”

As you can see from the Instagram post below, Rodney Smith has inspired a number of American children to help serve their neighbors.

RELATED: Gary Sinise Honored With Patriot Award For His Commitment To Helping Veterans

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I have updated our numbers. We now have 824 kids taking part in the 50 yard challenge . 824 x 50 = 41,200 lawns to be mowed for FREE for the elderly, disabled, single parents and veterans by kids who are taking part in the 50 yard challenge . You kids are heroes !‬ The goal is to have 1,000 kids signed up by the end of the year. * *Mistake in the first row, I hit the backspace button. Next to AL it’s two numbers. That 2 is suppose to be where is Alaska then the other numbers follow down . Will correct it next upload* ** More info about the 50 Yard Challenge :https://weareraisingmen.com/50-yard-challenge/

A post shared by Rodney Smith Jr (@rodneysmithjr) on May 31, 2020 at 5:41pm PDT

This all started when Smith was 15 years old. He saw an elderly man attempting to mow his lawn. The teen stopped and helped the man. And, he hasn’t stopped helping others since.

That’s why he founded Raising Men Lawn Service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Jaron & Malik from Gamaliel,KY who are taking part in our 50 yard challenge were at it again . This dynamic duo is determined to reach their goal of 50 free lawns for the elderly, disabled , single parents and veterans in their city . Awesome job guys !

A post shared by Rodney Smith Jr (@rodneysmithjr) on Jun 17, 2020 at 7:19pm PDT

When a person accepts Smith’s 50-lawn challenge, he gives them a new lawn mower, weed eater, and blower!

His kindness and goodwill has spread across the country. He explains this program in the video below.