Generosity

Birthday parties are generally fun events, but they can sometimes get loud or upset neighbors who must be added to the guest list. This happened during a quinceañera in Greensboro, prompting someone to call the police with a noise complaint. However, instead of breaking up the celebration, the responding officers joined the festivities.

For those unfamiliar, a quinceañera is a significant celebration in Latino cultures, marking a girl’s 15th birthday and her transition from girlhood to womanhood. These events are typically elaborate, featuring elegant gowns, a beautiful venue, and plenty of delicious food and lively music. The joyful atmosphere can sometimes be loud enough to attract attention from the neighborhood. When officers arrived to check on the noise, they were warmly invited to join the party, an offer they couldn’t resist.

The Greensboro Police Department later shared on Facebook that the three officers had a great time at the party. They enjoyed a meal and handed out stickers to guests. They even posed for a photo with the birthday girl. What could have been a tense situation turned into a heartwarming community moment.

The Facebook post received numerous positive comments. Joyce Marie wrote, “Thank you, officers Matthews, King, and Johnson! This is a wonderful way to build community, and the family, especially the young girl, will never forget it.”

Kelly Jo Netter added, “Now that’s community policing! These officers turned this into a positive experience for everyone involved. Thank you!”

Another commenter, Becca La Fea, said, “This is an extraordinary event in our culture. They were probably super honored to have you guys there. You all are great!!!”

Although a few people mentioned that the noise might have been an issue, most comments were overwhelmingly positive. Many wished the birthday girl a happy day and appreciated seeing the officers engaging positively with the community. Building relationships with residents can significantly impact fostering trust and understanding between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The officers had no intention of dampening the young girl’s special day. While the noise complaint was left unresolved, the family had a memorable and uplifting experience. Hopefully, the neighbors understood the importance of the celebration to the girl and her family.

The Greensboro Police Department also wished the teen a happy birthday in their post, and we echo that sentiment. Everyone involved had a fantastic time.

According to WCNC, an 8-year-old boy named Nash Johnson from Lexington, Kentucky, wanted to buy an Xbox, but his weekly allowance of $5 wasn’t sufficient. With the Xbox priced at around $300, Nash realized it would take him five years to save enough money.

Determined to accelerate his savings, Nash decided to look for a job. He noticed a “help wanted” sign outside Drake’s restaurant near his grandmother’s house and applied online for a dishwasher position. Nash confidently told WCNC, “I’m very good at washing dishes.”

However, Kentucky’s labor laws require workers to be at least 16 years old. Despite this, Nash’s application caught the attention of the restaurant’s management, who were curious about the young applicant.

Mark Thornburg, Drake’s chief operating officer, explained to Good Morning America that the kitchen manager initially thought Nash had mistakenly left out a digit on his age. When she called Nash’s grandmother’s house, Nash answered and revealed his true age of 8.

Nash’s mother, Belinda Johnson, found her son’s job application amusing but was not surprised. She praised Nash’s fearless attitude and determination, saying, “That kid is not afraid to fail. He’s a go-getter.”

In the Johnson household, financial literacy is a priority. Belinda uses three jars to teach Nash about spending, saving, and giving. After reviewing his jars, Nash decided he needed to increase his savings and thought that getting a job would help. “He’s like, ‘I can get me more money if I get me a job,’” Belinda explained.

Although Nash was not hired, Drake’s management invited him to a new hire orientation to give him a glimpse of what working at the restaurant would be like. At the orientation, Nash received an official Drake’s employee shirt, which thrilled him.

Thornburg noted, “I tell a lot of people he would have been just as happy with his uniform shirt because his eyes got about as big as a softball. He was so excited.” Nash also learned how to operate the dishwasher, preparing him for future employment.

The highlight of Nash’s orientation was receiving a new Xbox from Thornburg as a reward for his impressive work ethic. Thornburg said the gift “changed the little guy’s life for sure” and praised Nash as “the youngest applicant” he had ever encountered.

This story highlights the importance of working hard to achieve one’s goals. It commends Belinda for teaching financial responsibility and Drake for recognizing and encouraging Nash’s dedication.

Kindness from strangers is always uplifting, but when many individuals come together to support one person in need, it creates a powerful and heartwarming display of humanity.

This was the case for 89-year-old pizza delivery driver Derlin Newey, who touched the hearts of the Valdez family during a pizza delivery. Newey’s friendly nature and impressive work ethic unexpectedly led him to become a TikTok sensation and prompted a wave of generous donations from strangers eager to ease his burdens.

The story began when Carlos Valdez posted a video of Newey’s delivery, captured by the family’s Nest doorbell camera, on TikTok. In the video, Newey cheerfully greets the family and engages in conversation.

Valdez was struck by Newey’s dedication and posted, “What is this guy doing delivering pizzas? True hustler.” Curious, Valdez decided to learn more.

Upon discovering that Newey worked multiple weekly shifts for Papa John’s, Valdez and his family decided to show their appreciation. They created a Venmo account for their TikTok followers, encouraging small donations—ranging from $0.25 to $1.00—to gather a tip for Newey.

In just one week, they amassed an impressive $12,069 for Newey, who was unaware of the effort. After arranging more deliveries to gather more information, the Valdez family visited Newey’s home with a giant novelty check.

Newey’s reaction was profoundly touching:

They also presented him with the cash in an envelope.

Overwhelmed, Newey said, “How do I ever say thank you? I don’t know what to say.”

Newey, who lives alone and works about 30 hours a week delivering pizzas to supplement his Social Security income, was profoundly moved by the support.

Valdez expressed his satisfaction to KSL, saying, “This worked out perfectly. He needed this. I’m happy we could help. We should all treat others with the same kindness and respect he shows. He won our hearts.”

Valdez also shared a thank-you video with his 60,000 TikTok followers, expressing gratitude for the community’s support. He noted that, despite global challenges, the outpouring of kindness was heartening. Valdez mentioned that he would keep the Venmo account open for further donations, ensuring all contributions go directly to Newey.

Kudos to the Valdez family for their generosity and for bringing attention to the wonderful Derlin Newey. Your actions are a powerful reminder of the goodness people can achieve together.