In a display of generosity, students at Providence College in Rhode Island allied together to surprise their dedicated security guard, James. They surprised him with a gift that resonated deeply – the gift of travel. The initiative, spearheaded by freshman Brandon Reichert, exemplified the tight-knit community at Providence College. It also showcased the profound impact of empathy and collective action.
The Backstory
James’s role as a security guard transcended mere job responsibilities. He was a mentor, a friend, and a pillar of support for the students. His genuine care and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on the Providence College community. When James revealed that he hadn’t visited his family in Nigeria for over a decade, the students were moved to action, determined to bring him joy and reunite him with his loved ones.
The Surprise
The idea took root during a conversation with James, where he fondly reminisced about his homeland and expressed his longing to see his family again. Touched by his sincerity, a group of students decided to harness the power of crowdfunding to make James’s dream a reality. Thus, the GoFundMe campaign was born, with the sole purpose of sending James on a trip to Nigeria.
@lkquinnco 🛑please stop and take the time to watch and share this amazing display of unrelenting kindness and humanity at its best.🛑 now time for MY BRAGGING- My best friend Jess Reichert son Brandon is the most incredibly kind, thoughtful and generous soul. (Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree) I am once again blown away by Brandon’s God Given gift of always doing the right thing and recognizing what is truly important in this world- LOVE and KINDNESS. Brandon started a Gofundme for his overnight security guard James at his dorm building at Providence College. James has been wanting to visit his family in Nigeria for a long time, and Brandon along with all of the amazing students on his floor at PC began to raise money for James to get him home. Today they presented him with the trip. This act of kindness shows us all, that we are more alike than not. Brandon’s ability to always do the right thing and lead, show compassion and gratitude has been a highlight of my life watching him grow up into the amazing young man he is. On that note, I want to give Jess Reichert all the respect in the world for raising this boy as a SINGLE MOTHER and shaping him to be everything he is. For the countless sacrifices she has and continues to make and the obstacles she endures to make sure he has every opportunity to continue on his path we all could learn from as parents. This is also your payoff Jessie, everything that boy is, is ALL because of you! I al so proud to be your friend! I love you both so much!!! Let’s keep this going with a share! @wcvb5 @wpri12 @therhodeshow @abc6providence @channelkindness @thekindnessrocksproject #belikeBrandon #providenceCollege #gofundme #goviral #pcfriars #kindnessmatters ♬ original sound – Leah Quinn
The Response
The response was overwhelming, with donations pouring in from both the Providence College community and well-wishers across the globe. Within a short time, the campaign surpassed its initial goal, raising $30,000 – a testament to the collective goodwill and generosity of strangers.
James was moved by the outpouring of support. He expressed his gratitude in a TikTok video. “I don’t know how much I can thank you guys. I pray from the bottom of my heart and will continue to protect you guys,” he said. His story is a testament to the fact that, indeed, even the smallest gestures of kindness can make a world of difference in someone’s life.