Working to Give: Philanthropies & Philanthropic Work

Morgan’s Wonderland in Texas is the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park. Unlike typical theme parks, Morgan’s Wonderland features a tranquil environment free from long lines and loud noises, and admission is free for individuals with disabilities.

The park is equipped with wheelchair-accessible rides, including a new zip line that offers stunning views over a fishing lake and the surrounding gardens. Since its inception in 2010, nearly 4 million guests from across the globe have visited Morgan’s Wonderland. The park recently underwent a $6 million renovation, adding a community center, a sports field, and Morgan’s Salon, an adaptive hair salon which provides hair and nail services in a wheelchair-friendly environment. Miranda Raab, who has cerebral palsy, shared her relief at being able to enjoy a stress-free haircut at the salon. “I’m able to just roll my chair up to this space right here that is open. And I was just able to get my haircut like everyone else… It’s way more relaxing than trying to go to a regular salon.”

Morgan’s Wonderland was founded by Gordon Hartman, of the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation. The park was inspired by Gordon’s daughter, Morgan, who was born with physical and cognitive challenges. Designed to promote inclusivity, the park not only offers a space where children like Morgan can engage freely, it also spearheads initiatives to enhance accessibility in businesses nationwide. Hartman’s vision for an ultra-accessible hotel underscores his commitment to creating environments that cater comprehensively to those with special needs.

A generous group of Providence College students from Raymond Hall’s fourth floor came together to give James Mogaji, a beloved security officer, the gift of a lifetime. Several months ago, the students learned that Mogaji hadn’t visited his family in Nigeria in over a decade. They decided to start an online fundraiser to reunite him with his loved ones.

Their initial goal was modest. The students hoped to raise $3,500. However, the overwhelming support from nearly 800 donations soon exceeded their expectations, highlighting the community’s admiration for Mogaji’s kindness and compassion.

In a touching ceremony on March 6, the students presented Mogaji with the money, ensuring his journey back home could become a reality. Mogaji was overwhelmed by the gesture, expressing his shock and gratitude at the unexpected kindness.

The gesture not only underscores the strong sense of community at Providence College but also reflects the institution’s ethos of care and concern. President Father Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. commended the students for embodying the spirit of the Friars, showcasing an exceptional example of selflessness and unity.

Mogaji plans to travel to Nigeria this summer. This story is a beautiful reminder of how small acts of generosity can make significant differences in people’s lives, strengthening community bonds and fostering an environment of mutual support and love.

This year, Valentine’s Day in Denver transcends the usual expectations of romance and smiles, offering an inspiring blend of art, generosity, and community spirit. Thanks to the creativity of local artist Xander Phoenix, who ingeniously scattered 100 papier-mâché hearts across the Denver metropolitan area. These are no ordinary hearts; each is crafted from one hundred $1.00 bills, inviting the public to a unique treasure hunt that enriches the soul as much as the wallet.

Dubbed “The Heart of Money,” this art installation ventures beyond the conventional art scene, weaving a narrative that explores our relationship with money and art. Those who are lucky enough to find a heart are encouraged to either use the money, keeping the heart as decoration in their home, leaving it in place for others to find, or even gifting it to someone else to spread joy. The choice is a testament to the varied value we can find in art and generosity.

Phoenix explained, “Ultimately, my goal is to spread love and joy around Denver on Valentine’s Day…  It’s a fun way to both create and connect community around some important themes. I hope everyone who goes out looking for the hearts and those who find them have as much fun as we’ve had creating and bringing this street art installation to life.”

The initiative is also a tribute to Phoenix’s late mother, an award-winning filmmaker and activist. “The Heart of Money” honors her legacy, spreading love and joy in a city-wide celebration that embodies the spirit of giving and creativity.

In a touching gesture, a Peloton community in Massachusetts upheld their annual tradition of generosity by leaving a substantial tip for local restaurant servers. Members of the Wicked Smaht Zone, a subgroup within the Peloton community, surprised Nicole Boiardi and Raisa Zan with a gracious gift of nearly $7,200 during a breakfast gathering at Red’s Kitchen and Tavern in Peabody.

In an interview on Good Morning America, founder Josh Vernon revealed that the fitness group, was formed to serve a more significant purpose. With the motto “do wicked good,” the 2,300 members encourage each other to excel not just in fitness, but in all aspects of life, extending their commitment to giving back to the community.

Embracing this mantra, the group initiated an annual charitable gathering, converging at different restaurants each year to pool funds for a special tip for servers. Originally expecting a modest dinner for about 20, the generosity spiraled as members expressed willingness to contribute additional funds via Venmo, resulting in a tip exceeding $7,000.

Expressing astonishment and gratitude, servers Zan and Boiardi decided to share the unexpected windfall with their colleagues, particularly those working behind the scenes. Vernon emphasized that the group’s philanthropy stems from the belief that individuals, regardless of their platform’s scale, can go beyond mere goodness and make a genuinely positive impact, embodying the spirit of “doing wicked good.”