We sometimes think of teenagers as aloof or only interested in themselves. Sadly, we aren’t giving them enough credit. Sure, the teenage years are a challenging time and some kids are a bit more selfish, but it is also an age when their hearts grow tremendously.
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Francis Apraku is a custodian at James Madison High School in Vienna, Virginia. His positive attitude and ability to relate to the kids made quite an impression. Francis has always wanted a Jeep Wrangler, and when students learned of his dream, they decided to help make it come true.
In an email, a student named Bennett told Good Morning America that a group of students started a challenge at the high school to raise money for their custodian but had no idea what they’d accomplish.
“In the first two days, we raised $5,000 and we were in shock,” Bennett wrote. “It was really amazing how the town could come together and raise that much so quickly for a man they never knew.”
The Students Raised $20,000 For Their Custodian In Only Three Months
According to an Instagram reel shared by the Vienna Inn, the students presented Francis with his Jeep on September 9.
“Today, they made his dream a reality and presented him with the Jeep! We were honored to be part of this special moment today and thrilled to have this amazing group of young men celebrate with us and to see their reactions as they watched the news stories about their incredible achievement. Incredible!”
Francis shared his gratitude in a statement with GMA.
“The custodial staff and I deeply cherish the connection that we make with the Madison High School students. We all take pride in our work and love that we are made to feel such a welcome part of the school community,” he said. “I couldn’t believe it when I received such an incredible gift. This means the world to me, and I will never forget their kindness.”
A follower praised the teens, “So amazing!! What a great group of kids!!”
“This story touches on my heart! Love this,” someone added.
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
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