Anthony Gerald III
Eighth Grade, Academy of Excellence
Washington, D.C. Trip Winner
During the holidays, Anthony was at a birthday party when he overheard that a group of young men were teasing his friend for not having a bed and having to sleep on the floor. Knowing this behavior was unacceptable and having sympathy for his friend, Anthony advised his father of what occurred and knew he needed to do something to help. Anthony and his father teamed up
with the Miami Police Community Relations Section and surprised his friend not only with a brand new bed, but also a comforter set, pillows, a matching throw blanket and basket. Anthony gave a heartfelt speech with words of encouragement to his friend who was taken back by Anthony’s generosity.
During the month of December, Anthony organized a toy drive for the children at Holmes Elementary and was able to exceed his fundraising goal to gift 360 children 2 gifts each. Before winter break, Anthony overheard a teacher and student discussing a ninth grader that was being bullied because of the shoes and clothes that he wore. Anthony told his dad about the young man and knew that his dad had a brand-new pair of Chris Paul Jordan’s that he hadn’t worn yet. He asked his dad if it was okay for him to give those shoes to a young man in need and of course his dad obliged. Driven by their passion to help others,
Anthony and his father started an organization called Fathers Uplifting Kids to impact children that do not have a father present in their life. Anthony truly personifies kindness, care, and compassion and has made it his life mission to continue bringing joy to others.