80% of donations came from tradespeople...

Wow, I broke $2,000 amazing!!!!!!!!!!! I topped it from the love of my friends and a couple roadside stand ins. A quick note about my last stand in, 80% of donations came from tradespeople. I was amazed at how many people who work with their hands gave me money. To top it off, I had about fifty people pass me wearing business suits, not even one gave even a dollar. I also had a crazy dog try to break through the glass and end my Joe4Jude campaign.

I continue to be humbled when I stand there, I the feel the cold, friendly and “you’re crazy” looks. I hate not being acknowledged; they look away as though they will evaporate if they make eye contact. I don’t care if they do not donate, I hate the lack of acknowledgement. I have been the same way in the past, I am changing what I do. From now on even though I may not give money, ill make eye contact, give a little nod, wave and even a little smile. A smile goes a long way!

I also want to thank those who donated at our 4th of July get together. Next roadside stand in coming soon.

Help me, Help Kids – Joe4Jude

I stood along the road with my sign for 4 hours...

A couple Sundays ago I started my journey to raise $10,000 for St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I stood along the road with my sign for 4 hours. A humbling experience, educational, it had highs and lows. First off, I found it so funny how many people at the opposite side of the intersection would strain to read the sign, but those right beside me so often did everything they could to not look my direction. Many people were even afraid to say hello. “Oh no, if I say hello, I’ll have to give money”. I have done the same thing, adjust the radio, look at my text, stare straight ahead as though I have blinders on.

I almost got hit by a car a couple times, yelled at once to “get a job”, one man from behind didn’t see my sign and yelled, “get the f*&% outta here”. But the people that contributed, made all the bad experiences worth it. I had people go out of their way to give me money, a few people voiced extreme appreciation for what I was doing. I had great family support. Two daughters and my grandson came by. My sister made my day dropping off a little cash. I am doing it again very soon and I really hope I get a few more friends to come out and see me. My day brought $274, and my total with online donations is $1,189 as of today (6.23.2020). Thanks to all of you, and please remember, Help Me, Help Kids!