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Students Surprise Custodian with Dream Jeep Wrangler
Vienna, Virginia — A heartwarming gesture unfolded at James Madison High School in Vienna, Virginia, where a group of sophomore football players formed an unexpected friendship with Francis Apraku, the school’s custodian. This bond grew stronger during their encounters outside the weight room, where Apraku consistently checked in on the students’ well-being.
“If we had a bad day, he’d be the first guy to be like, ‘Hey, are you OK?'” said student Bennett Hibshman. Inspired by Apraku’s kindness, the group decided to show their appreciation with a unique surprise.
During one of their conversations, the students asked Apraku what his dream gift would be. He replied, “My heart’s desire is a Jeep Wrangler.” For Apraku, who diligently sends support to his family in Ghana, owning a Wrangler seemed elusive. Motivated by his wish, the students initiated a fundraising campaign that remarkably raised around $22,000 in just four months. With these funds, they were able to purchase a 2015 Jeep Wrangler and planned a memorable reveal.
When Apraku arrived at school to see the Wrangler parked in the lot, his emotional reaction was profound. “My leg started shaking. I can’t stand, I can’t stand. I was panicking! I had to get myself on the floor and I was crying,” he shared with CBS News, clearly overwhelmed by the unexpected generosity.
In his astonishment, Apraku even began rolling on the ground, prompting concern from the students. “It got to the point where it was like, is he OK? Making sure he’s OK, and we helped him up,” recounted student Logan Georgelas.
Once they managed to get him to the car, Apraku remained in disbelief. “I will never, ever forget today,” he expressed, emphasizing that the experience transcended the gift itself. “I can’t believe this in America, only in America,” he added, reflecting on the community support that made this moment possible.
In recognition of the touching story, Jeep also reached out to Apraku, offering him a service package that will include complimentary oil changes and tire rotations for the next six years at a nearby dealership.
Community Spirit Shines Through
This story highlights how small acts of kindness can foster significant impact in a community. The students’ initiative not only fulfilled Apraku’s long-held dream but also exemplified the power of teamwork and empathy among peers. The heartfelt connection between the students and their custodian is a poignant reminder of the influence that caring gestures can have, building bridges across different walks of life.
Continuing the Conversation
This incredible act of kindness has sparked discussions about generosity and community involvement within schools. As more stories like this emerge, they encourage others to engage with and support the hardworking individuals who often remain in the background, ensuring that everything runs smoothly in educational environments.
Source
www.cbsnews.com