HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Rodney Smith Jr., founder of Raising Men Lawn Care Service, has been named the winner of the Wahl Home Products Benevolent Beard Contest.
Wahl said hundreds of men submitted videos explaining how they support a charity. Smith Jr. was one of five finalists named. Now, he has won $20,000 for himself and $5,000 for his charity.
Rodney Smith Jr. founded Raising Men Lawn Care Service around nine years ago. The charity offers free lawn care for the elderly, disabled, single parents and veterans. "I believe it's my life's work and I believe it's my purpose," said Smith, "If you've ever see a horse in a race, they have these blinders on their eyes just to keep them straight and focused. I believe that's what God is doing for me. So, while I know we're making a difference, I just do my best to keep focused and keep on the mission."
The organization has encouraged teens to complete a "50 Yard Challenge" -- mowing 50 lawns for free. Those who complete the challenge are rewarded with a new lawn mower and other equipment. "When they can come mow someone's lawn for free, just getting a nice thank you makes them feel good knowing that they're making a difference, helping their person," said Smith.
According to the organization, more than 3,200 kids are mowing lawns. Over 15,000 lawns have been mowed for free.
In 2020, he was featured on a Lay's Potato Chip bag to benefit Operation Smile. Early in his career, he gained national recognition delivering food to locals in need and for his journey to mow lawns in all 50 states, was honored as a Hardee's All-Star, and raised $10,000 for Texas hurricane victims.
