With one random act of kindness that renewed his faith in humanity, 17-year-old Andrew Turner of Rossmoor is paying it forward to others this holiday season.
With one random act of kindness that renewed his faith in humanity, 17-year-old Andrew Turner of Rossmoor is paying it forward to others this holiday season.
The Los Alamitos High School junior has started his own charity after a total stranger named “Suzy” gave him $20 last year while he was at Starbucks. It was a time just after the Sandyhook Elementary School shootings, and having heard a woman talk about how her daughter had her baby supply bag stolen. Turner was disillusioned about the human race when “Suzy” appeared, telling him “The Lord told me to do this,” wishing him a Merry Christmas, then just as quickly walked away before he could thank her.
After telling family and friends his story, Turner’s $20 grew into $200, through their generosity and kindness. After much prayer and spiritual contemplation, Turner decided to donate the money to a local charity that helps out children and families living in motels, purchasing Dollar Tree certificates for them.
“Ever since this happened to me, I said, ‘Wow, there is hope for humanity,’” said Turner. “It made me look at my life and world differently – in a more positive light.”
This year, Turner has already raised $550 for his charity, amply named “The Suzy Project.” He is planning on randomly donating $40 care packages to people using public transportation at bus stops and transportation centers. Each care package will contain a $10 gift card to Dollar Tree, a $10 gift card to any Orange County grocery store, a $5 gift card to McDonalds, a $5 gift card to Subway, an OCTA pass for 5 rides valued at $9, one $1 California Lottery Scratcher, a handmade holiday gift card and small holiday treat.
“Even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference,” said Turner. “If I do a random act of kindness, it might turn into something they do in another’s life. I hope people can see how one act leads to another. It’s about really helping people out this holiday season.”
Turner wants the public to remember that there are people out there who need a helping hand especially during the holidays. In Orange County, 12.2 percent of the population falls at or under the poverty line, according to U.S. Census 2007-2011 American Community Survey. Turner chose to give to people at bus stops and transportation centers with Pope Francis in mind since he used public transportation extensively in South America. Turner, who attends St. Hedwig Catholic Church, said his patron saint is Saint Francis of Assisi, saint of the poor and vulnerable.
“Although this is a secular project, it has a lot of religious meaning to me, and connects me to my faith,” he said. “I’ve been given this opportunity and inspiration, and feel I should just run with it.”
At least in part, Turner feels his parents’ small acts of charity over the years have made a difference in him wanting to give back. “I feel I’m really lucky to live and have all that I have, and that it’s only right to give back,” he said. “I just know I have the drive to do something great.” Indeed, Turner is already doing something great through one random act of kindness at a time.
For more information on The Suzy Project or to volunteer or make a donation, visit online at suzyproject.org or “Like” on Facebook.com/suzyproject.org. You can also email to suzyproject@gmail.com. Donations are being accepted by mail at P.O. Box 1103 Los Alamitos, CA 90720.