Graduate student Rodney Smith Jr. is traveling to every U.S. state to accomplish a one of a kind mission — to mow lawns.
The 28-year old found his purpose when he came across an old man who was having a hard time mowing his lawn. He decided to pull over, lend a helping hand, and the rest, as they say, was history.
"That night, I decided to mow lawns for the elderly, disabled, single moms and veterans," Smith said in an interview with CNN.
Smith is a student at one of the top universities in Huntsville, Alabama A&M University. He is determined to complete his "50 States 50 Lawns" challenge, where he mows three lawns of people who are either disabled, elderly, a veteran, or a single mom, in all U.S. states. The best thing is, his services are free of charge.
Humble Beginnings
After Smith graduated with a degree in computer science, he realized that he wanted something new. Smith pursued a master's degree in social work in Alabama.
This is where he started mowing lawns for free. First, he made a goal to mow 40 lawns before winter ended. However, the challenge proved to be too easy so he decided to raise it to 100.
After a month and a half, Smith completed his goal which helped him to start a foundation called Raising Men Lawn Care Service. The foundation does not only help keep grass at bay for people in need but also work to inspire and shed light on young women and men who want to make a difference.
Smith believes that this is his purpose in life.
50 States 50 Lawns
Last year, the native from Bermuda decided to undertake a new challenge. In May 2017, he started his first trip to mow lawns in all states. A year later, he is doing the deed again. This time, Smith is mentoring children along the way.
Smith said that he is a man on a mission by God. The mission had him traveling the entire country. He was in Jackson, Mississippi, on Friday; Shreveport, Louisiana, the next day; Little Rock, Arkansas, the day after. Smith wakes up in different cities every day until he accomplishes his goal. The last trips he will take will be in Alaska and Hawaii in July.
Smith Wants To Spread The Word
Smith believes that young people need to feel the joy of giving help to someone without expecting anything in return. Rodney plans to go through with another challenge on the summer of next year where he will travel around the world to provide free yard work.
The 50-yard challenge will acquaint children with lawn mower safety, and the importance of community service while encouraging them to do the challenge.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
