From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” (Arthur Ashe)
Jeremiah Cooks may have the biggest smile at HOPE Farm. His cheerful demeanor is contagious around the Farm with students, staff and visitors. Hiding behind his smile is a big heart full of compassion for others. Jeremiah is a giver. This past fall, HOPE Farm worked hard to make the most out of North Texas Giving Day sponsored by the Communities Foundation of Texas that raised almost 40 million dollars for nonprofits last year. When Jeremiah learned about this day of giving three years ago, it happened to be on his birthday. His mom, Lonnetta Wilson explained what happened that year in an email to Program Director Michael Morris:
I wanted to give some background to Jeremiah’s #NTxGivingDay gift.
3 years ago it fell on his birthday, he was turning seven. He decided that he wanted to give $7 to Morningside Children’s Partnership because a member of our church had discussed what all they do for the community one Sunday. Well, fast forward to now, every year the week of his birthday he gives his age in dollars to a nonprofit. Last year, was his school, the year before he gave to Eastside Ministries, and when we talked about it this year I was so proud that he wanted to give his $10, (he will be 10 on Sunday) to Hope Farm. I agreed to match his $10 and a family member said make it $25. It is not much but as a mom I was so proud of his heart, and that he is aware of the great work Hope Farm does for himself and for others.
Happy North Texas Giving Day. We are blessed to be a blessing!
“And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing” Genesis 12:2
Partnering with Ms. Wilson is such a blessing for the HOPE Farm staff. Jeremiah’s giving inspires us and makes us all want to do more and be better. Each staff member was called to be a part of HOPE Farm—every story is different and unique. We all come to serve. Along the way, our giving is inspired and ignited by boys and moms like Jeremiah and Ms. Wilson.
“To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
