Protests across the country are sparking change – and inspiring people of all ages to support others in need.
For 9-year-old Kamryn Johnson of Chanhassen, Minnesota, caring for her neighbors comes naturally. Along with her sister Quinn, she was raised to love her fellow humans. So in the wake of George Floyd’s death, the little girl made it her mission to help nearby Minneapolis communities.
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Kamryn has a knack for making cute, colorful friendship bracelets. So in May, she started selling them to raise money for people who are struggling because of the pandemic. She also wanted to help businesses that were damaged by riots, particularly those owned by people of color.
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Five of her neighborhood friends joined in, so she named the project Kamryn & Friends: Bracelets for Unity and Justice.
They’ve been spending their summer days crafting and selling the bracelets for $1-5 each.
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As a former NFL player and a radio sports analyst, Ron Johnson, Kamryn’s dad, figured he could boost their business by mentioning the initiative on the air. He was absolutely right!
Customers began lining up at their table, while donations came pouring in on GoFundMe. Notable sports figures have joined the growing group of donors as well, including Anthony Adams, Chad Greenway, and Harrison Smith.
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According to Ron, the children have raised more than $70,000 so far, including a $10,000 donation from Little Caesars! What’s more, they’ve prompted important discussions to take place in their neighborhood.
“Not only are we getting to have these conversations that we normally wouldn’t want to have, people are willing to do differently, to act different, so this world can be changed,” Shani Johnson, Kamryn’s mom, told GMA.
“Every day you are on this earth, it is your job to pass on as much love and empathy as you can,” Ron added. “Our daughter has reminded us of that.”
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What a smart, compassionate girl! We have no doubt that Kamryn will grow up to change the world. After all, she’s already making waves in her neighborhood!
Learn more about Kamryn and her friends in the video below, and share this story to spread the word. You can support their cause by donating here.
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