As some of you may know, I am a teacher. As most of you probably know…teachers don’t make huge salaries and we often need to purchase materials for our classrooms….out of our own pockets. I have done my shopping for my kiddos and we have all of the things we need to start the year off right. That said, I was looking for one last item…a luxury I suppose….I needed a coat rack for myself and my assistants. The other option would be to put them on the floor like I did last year 
I knew I did not need anything fancy…used would do just fine. With that in mind, I posted on LeJeune Yard Sales. I said I was looking for a used coat rack and I would pay $15 for one. I was prepared to shell out the money and I was hopeful someone out there was looking to get rid of one. To my surprise, I got a reply that day and as an even bigger surprise…the gentleman who replied wanted to make me one…for FREE!
I told him I could not accept it for free, but he was clear that he wanted to do this for me. He stated that he liked to help the community, he had a wood shop and he made things for sale all the time. After a little more back and forth (and me pleading to pay), the rack was made and I picked it up this past weekend.
I felt guilty as I pulled away from his house with my free, handmade coat rack, but I really think he just wanted to help. I think he understands how hard teachers work and he saw a small way he could contribute to one classroom. Needless to say, I took a stack of his business cards and will tell everyone to contact him if they need anything made. I also made sure to explain all of this to Jake and Sam. I hope one day, they will see a similar opportunity to help someone and they will jump at the chance.
Have you ever had someone you don’t know reach out to help you? How did it make you feel?
Tags: helping, kelly gump, kindness, school, strangers, support, teacher
Great story. Teachers give a lot without being compensated. I think it’s fantastic that you let someone else do the same for you.
It was really very nice of him and something I really needed.
This post gives me hope that there are still good people out there! Pay it forward! There are many great people who are willing to serve and don’t know how, I think it’s great that this man has a talent and paid it forward. It’s great that you allowed him to as well! Would love to see a picture of it!
I’ll try to get a photo up.he emailed me one when it was done but I don’t have that anymore. It is painted now anyway and looks even better
All I know is that if I ever need anything to be made he is my man now…he earned a loyal customer.