Growing Up Around Generosity

When I was a kid, giving back wasn’t some special event or once-a-year project. It was just something my family did. My parents owned a childcare center they built from the ground up, and they didn’t just run it like a business—they ran it like a place that served the community. They always found ways to help the families who needed it most.

One memory that sticks with me is how we used to drop off food, school supplies, and Christmas gifts at a food pantry in St. Louis. We didn’t make a big deal out of it—my parents didn’t ask for thanks or attention. They just did it because it was the right thing to do. That kind of quiet giving left a big impression on me, even as a young kid.

Life Doesn’t Slow Down

Now that I’m a dad and working full-time at a dealership detailing cars, I understand why people say life gets busy. Between raising kids, working long hours, and making sure bills are paid, it’s easy to feel like there’s not much time—or energy—left for anything else.

But here’s what I’ve learned: giving back doesn’t have to be some grand gesture or perfect setup. It doesn’t have to be a certain time of year. And it doesn’t need to cost a ton of money. What matters most is just showing up for others in whatever way you can. That’s the real meaning behind service—it’s not about convenience. It’s about consistency.

Small Acts Matter More Than You Think

A while back, I started volunteering at a place called Second Chance Ranch. They focus on older dogs—ones that people might overlook because they’re not puppies anymore. I’ve always had a soft spot for animals, and being around those dogs gave me a new appreciation for patience and care. It wasn’t glamorous work, but it mattered.

Just showing up, cleaning up, helping the staff—it reminded me how much small acts add up. You don’t have to fix everything. You just have to do something. Even donating to organizations like the ASPCA or sharing resources online can make a real difference.

Now, I try to pass that mindset on to my kids. We’ll drop off food at local pantries or help neighbors when they’re moving or going through something tough. My hope is that, just like I saw my parents do it, they’ll grow up thinking that giving back is just part of life—not something extra.

Why It Still Matters

It’s easy to think that giving is for people who have extra time, extra money, or extra energy. But I think it matters even more when we’re stretched thin. That’s when compassion really means something.

I’ve had times in my life when money was tight and energy was low. But in those moments, it was someone else’s kindness—someone else showing up—that helped me keep going. That’s something I haven’t forgotten. And it’s a big reason why I keep showing up when I can, even if it’s just with a little help.

Helping others grounds you. It reminds you that no matter how busy or tired or stressed you are, there’s always someone out there who could use a hand, a meal, or just a little time. And the truth is, when you give, it helps you too. It reminds you of what matters. It keeps your heart soft.

The Example We Set

As a dad, I know that my kids are always watching. Not necessarily what I say—but what I do. If they see me helping, giving, and making space for others, then they’ll start to believe that’s just what people do. That’s how I was raised, and that’s what I want to pass on.

It doesn’t have to be complicated. It might be as simple as helping a classmate, checking in on a neighbor, or giving away old toys to families who need them. The important part is being aware of people outside yourself and being willing to do something about it.

Doing What You Can, When You Can

I’m not perfect. There are times when I’m wiped out and the thought of doing anything extra feels overwhelming. But I’ve found that even then, a small gesture still counts. It might be taking time to listen to someone who’s struggling. It might be staying late to help a coworker finish up. It might be reminding your kids to be kind to someone who’s different or going through something hard.

Giving back isn’t about changing the world in one shot. It’s about doing what you can, when you can, with what you’ve got. And over time, all those small pieces come together and make a real difference.

The Heart of It All

When I think about what really matters at the end of the day, it’s not the cars I’ve detailed or the jobs I’ve held—it’s the people I’ve been able to help along the way. The friendships I’ve made, the neighbors I’ve supported, and the kids I’m raising to be thoughtful, kind human beings.

Life gets busy. I get that more than ever. But that doesn’t mean there’s no room to give. If anything, it means giving matters even more. Because in all the rushing and responsibilities, it reminds us that we’re not alone—that we’re all connected.

And if I can hold on to that, and pass it on, I know I’m doing something right.