The holiday season is marketed as the most wonderful time of the year. However, it is also the most expensive. According to the National Retail Federation, the average amount spent on gifts from 2016 through 2020 was $629. That does not include additional purchases such as decorations, food, and gift wrap — most of which end up in the trash. Consider this: The amount of money spent on candy gifting over the holidays is greater than the annual budgets of the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and Habitat for Humanity combined. TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting this holiday season and invites you to join the movement.

Thousands Join the Movement to #RedefineGifting

Imagine our impact on this world if even a portion of our holiday budget supports those who need it most. In 2020, investor and philanthropist Ray Dalio partnered with TisBest to launch a national movement to #RedefineGifting – by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. Through Ray’s generosity and the support of other donors, including Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Gayle King, and Arianna Huffington, TisBest gave the public 30,000 FREE Charity Gift Cards. As a result, a total of $2 million was donated to their favorite U.S. charities!

In 2021, Ray Dalio and friends announced another massive #RedefineGifting giveaway! 40,000 recipients have paid forward $2 million to over 5,600 U.S. charities. We are overjoyed with the more than 14,500 thank you emails we received from participants. So, we thought we’d share a few with you!

TisBest Charity Gift Cards Do a World of Good

Be the Change You Wish To See in the World

Not everyone has the means to donate to charity. Your gift gives recipients a chance to experience the power and joy of giving. TisBest Charity Gift Cards work like any other gift card, except 100% of the card’s value goes to the charities of their choice. Unlike store-branded gift cards, TisBest Charity Gift Cards can be custom-designed for a personal touch. You can send a bio-plastic card by mail, print a card at home, or send an e-card to your gift recipient. With more than 1.8 million U.S.-registered charities to choose from, your recipient can easily support the charities that are most meaningful to them. 

Rather than buying stuff people don’t need, #RedefineGifting with a gift that will be well received by all. TisBest Charity Gift Cards are a meaningful gift for your family and friends and a much-needed gift for the charities they hold near and dear to their hearts. With cards starting as low as $10, they’re the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

The post Partnership Sparks National Movement to #RedefineGifting appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit, we’d like to reflect on the abundance of good celebrated on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. For the show’s final season, the host partnered with TisBest to honor special guests who are making the world a better place. The collaboration also sparked new additions to the show’s digital platform giving fans more reasons to smile. 

On the final episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the host’s closing remarks were, “I feel the love and I send it right back to you.” That perfectly sums up the show’s mission for the past 19 years. It also reflects the host’s inspiration for partnering with TisBest Philanthropy for the show’s final season.

Daytime Talk Show Focuses on the Positive

News media outlets traditionally focus on political strife, local and national tragedies, and, in recent years, the pandemic. Daytime soaps and many talk show programs feature scripted drama. However, The Ellen DeGeneres Show was an anomaly to daytime TV. It always gave viewers a reason to smile, from the comedic opening monologue and dance party with guest host tWitch to celebrity guests, silly games, and audience giveaways. Most importantly, the show gave viewers hope by sharing heartwarming stories that often don’t make the national news. It reminded us that there is a lot of good in the world and we all have the power to create positive change. The Ellen DeGeneres Show used its platform to help others do just that.

Celebrity Partners with NonProfit to Maximize Charitable Impact

Over the years, inspiring guests on The Ellen DeGeneres Show have shared how they overcame adversity or exhibited selfless acts of kindness. In turn, the host surprised them with life-changing gifts or monetary donations that have impacted communities across the globe. For the show’s final season, The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to honor everyday people who are making a positive impact in their communities.

First, the host gave each featured guest a TisBest check to support their respective causes. The 58 guests received over $245,000 to make an even bigger impact through their acts of kindness. Next, the host gave $175,000 in TisBest Charity Gift Cards for selected guests to pay forward to their favorite charities. Then the host encouraged viewers to experience the power of giving with TisBest Charity Gift Cards. Finally, the host ended every episode with these simple yet powerful words: be kind to one another. A mantra that now lives on through the show’s digital network, ellentube.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show Gives Fans a Daily Dose of Happiness

From September 8, 2003 through May 26, 2022, The Ellen DeGeneres Show aired over 3,200 episodes. Many of those featured ordinary people doing extraordinary things. When The Ellen DeGeneres Show joined forces with TisBest Philanthropy for its final season, the partnership sparked another way to inspire fans long after the final episode. First, they launched a new platform on ellentube called “Smile.” The program highlights heartwarming stories of everyday heroes doing good for others. Although the live show has come to an end, fans can continue to be inspired by these stories. Now, fans have three more reasons to be happy.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show Gives Fans More Reasons to Smile

In the host’s final monologue she shared, “If this show has made you smile, if it has lifted you up, [during] a period of some type of pain, some type of sadness, then I have done my job.” In that spirit, The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered once again with TisBest Philanthropy to create three spin-off series on the Smile network. The goal is to continue the show’s legacy by giving people a reason to smile every single day.

If You Can Be Anything in This World, Be Kind

To read more about the everyday heroes featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, check out our “As Seen on Ellen” blog series. Kindness is contagious and we all have the power to spread it among our communities. In the words of the former talk show host, “Be kind to one another.”

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post The Ellen DeGeneres Show Gives Back Through TisBest appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like Roslyn and Ray Singleton, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

Husband and wife Roslyn and Ray Singleton truly exemplify the vow in sickness and in health. Just a couple of weeks before their first wedding anniversary Roslyn was diagnosed with brain cancer. She and Ray have remained optimistic throughout her treatment. In turn, their positivity has inspired so many others after a video of Ray serenading Roslyn before surgery went viral. Now the Charlotte, North Carolina couple has people all over the country praying for Roslyn’s recovery.

Brain Tumor Returns After Six-Year Remission

Roslyn Singleton is a navy veteran who was diagnosed with stage three brain cancer in 2013 – several years before she met Ray. She had been experiencing symptoms including migraines and blurred vision, which prompted her to go to the doctor. An MRI revealed a tumor the size of an orange on her brain. The tumor was successfully surgically removed and Roslyn was symptom-free and cancer free.

Roslyn went back for annual scans and got a healthy report for six consecutive years. Then, on October 10, 2019 the cancer returned. During Roslyn’s routine check-up the doctor discovered a new tumor, about the size of a half dollar, in the same spot on her brain. For the next three months, Roslyn went to the doctors three to four times a week for scans, MRIs, and blood work and had to sleep with a device to monitor for seizures or any irregular brain activity. Although Roslyn had faced this diagnosis before, this time she didn’t have to do it alone. She always had her guardian angel by her side. Roslyn and Ray Singleton faced each challenge together, with positivity and love.

Husband Serenades Wife Before Surgery and Inspires Millions

In January 2020 as Roslyn was in the hospital awaiting her second brain surgery in six years, Ray felt helpless and wanted to do anything to make his wife smile. He decided to serenade Roslyn in her hospital bed with a rendition of Daniel Caesar’s “Get You.” He recorded the song on his phone. Then he turned it into a video with pictures of Roslyn’s medical journey to share with his family and friends on social media. To their surprise the video went viral and inspired millions. Roslyn and Ray Singleton received an outpouring of love and prayers from strangers across the country.

Next, one month after Roslyn’s surgery, the couple appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show to talk about their unexpected fame. Then the host surprised Roslyn and Ray with a special video greeting from NBA legend Dwyane Wade. Since their appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Roslyn and Ray have been overwhelmed by the support of fans. In fact, they had to open a P.O. Box to receive the abundance of inspirational letters, postcards, and gift cards.

Roslyn and Ray Singleton Meet NBA Legend Dwyane Wade

In honor of The Ellen DeGeneres Show’s final season, the host invited Roslyn and Ray Singleton back to check in on Roslyn’s progress. The couple was welcomed by guest host tWitch, who had secretly hidden his surprise co-host backstage. When tWitch recalled Dwyane Wade’s video message back in 2020, he said that Dwyane had another message for the couple. However, this time, he wanted to deliver it in person. Then the stage doors opened up to reveal guest co-host Dwyane Wade.

When Dwyane asked Roslyn about her health, she shared that she is still in treatment.  She does three different types of treatment, including IV chemo every two weeks, a pill every six weeks, and for 20 hours every day she wears a headpiece that uses radio waves to help kill the tumor. Roslyn and Ray Singleton remain hopeful. When her treatment ends in December, the couple plan to start a family.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show Helps with Medical Expenses

Due to the ongoing treatments and side effects, Roslyn had to stop working. Ray juggles multiple jobs to help keep up with expenses. Inspired by the couple’s unwavering positive outlook, The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to offer the couple some financial support. Co-hosts tWitch and Dwyane Wade surprised Roslyn and Ray Singleton with a check for $25,000 to help with medical expenses. All of Roslyn’s and Ray’s positivity and love that they send out in the world is coming right back to them.

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post Roslyn and Ray Singleton Face Cancer with Positive Mindset appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like BLK & Bold Co-Founders Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson are the co-founders of BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages, the first nationally distributed black-owned coffee brand. The two childhood friends left their jobs in the corporate world because of an idea that started brewing over a shared cup of coffee.

New Business Idea Percolates Over a Cup of Joe

High school classmates Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson lived on the same street in Gary, Indiana. They spent their days shooting hoops in Pernell’s backyard court. Both of them were first-generation college graduates and pursued careers in the corporate world. Pernell worked in retail merchandising and Rod was a professional fundraiser for national academic and health care institutions.

The two remained friends and often met up for coffee. They felt unfulfilled in their careers and started discussing ideas for start-up businesses, but none of them stuck. Then they realized that every time they had these brainstorming meetings it was always over a cup of coffee or tea. That’s when Pernell and Rod knew something was brewing.

The Daily Grind

Although the two friends had corporate experience and a mutual love of coffee, they knew nothing about the coffee industry. They set up shop in Pernell’s garage and started researching and experimenting. Using technology to their advantage they watched YouTube videos to figure out how to use the roaster. There was a lot of trial and error. In fact, one of their neighbors was concerned that the garage was on fire due to the burning smell. Fortunately, there wasn’t a fire – just a flaming hot cup of coffee in the making.

Brewing a Brand That Gives Back

Once Pernell and Rod perfected their roast they started discussing how and where to sell it. They wanted a brand that reflected not only their love of coffee but one that fulfilled their other mutual passion – giving back to their community. The two friends had been drinking coffee their entire adult lives. However, they felt that the black community was underrepresented in the coffee business. What’s more, the industry as a whole was not very community focused.

In an interview with Fortune, Rod Johnson shared, “Coffee is the second-highest-consumed beverage in the U.S. (after water), and millions of people partake in daily consumption, all that fall short of making a positive impact back to their communities. We want to ensure that our communities and consumers are being supported and respected via the coffee businesses and retailers that market to us and are located on corners of our communities across the U.S.”

BLK & Bold Serves Up a Cup of Kindness

BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages reflects the products they sell – black coffee and black tea. It also represents the black-owned business and the communities in which it serves. They intentionally do not operate as an independent coffee shop. BLK & Bold, headquartered in Des Moines, IA, is a coffee and tea manufacturer and supplier with a business model based on social impact.

Growing up in Gary, Indiana, Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson lived in an at-risk community. They know what it’s like to walk in those shoes. They were fortunate enough to overcome obstacles and become successful. Pernell and Rod wanted to find a way to help children in marginalized communities live their best lives. Through their brand, Pernell and Rod give back to their childhood community as well as other at-risk areas across the country. BLK & Bold donates 5% of profits to 15 U.S. organizations that support at-risk youth. Now the co-founders have come full circle from shooting hoops in the backyard to building a business and philanthropic partnership with the NBA!

NBA Matches BLK & Bold Charitable Donations

BLK & Bold features a special collection of NBA-themed coffee. The collection, wittily called The Warm Up, includes teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers, the Chicago Bulls, and the New York Knicks. Each custom-coffee roast is packaged with the BLK & Bold brand and respective team’s colors. To make the partnership even sweeter the NBA matches BLK & Bold’s donation to at-risk communities with every sale of their NBA-licensed coffee products.

Dwyane Wade Tells Pernell and Rod What’s Happening

With each milestone of their success Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson have had what they call “what’s happening” moments. From their first successful brew to their partnership with the NBA, they just look at each other in awe and say, “What’s happening?” They had the same reaction when former Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade and his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, showed BLK & Bold some love on their social platforms. 

When Pernell and Rod were invited as guests on The Ellen DeGeneres Show they had another “what’s happening” moment. First, they fulfilled their childhood basketball dreams when they met guest host Dwyane Wade. Next, Dwyane announced that The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to help BLK & Bold with their social impact mission. Dwayne presented Pernell and Rod with a TisBest check for $10,000 for BLK & Bold to give back to at-risk communities! That’s “what’s happening!”

Sip, Relax, and Give Back

BLK & Gold started with a single roaster in Pernell’s garage. Now the company operates from a 20,000 SF commercial facility in Des Moines. In just three years, BLK & Bold has profited nearly $1 million – and continually expands its impact on at-risk communities. If you’d like to support a black-owned business that is giving back, BLK & Bold’s products can be found online, on their website and Amazon, as well as in retail stores such as Target and Whole Foods.

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post BLK & Bold Coffee Has Big Perks for At-Risk Communities appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like the Lucky 13, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

Twelve strangers became friends while bonding over their shared experiences on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. They were each members of the studio audience whose lives were transformed when the host called them to the stage. The 12 past guests met for the first time when they were invited to the taping of the show’s 2,000th episode, which aired in Season 13. Now, they’ve become lifelong friends who refer to themselves as the Lucky 13.

Talk Show Guests Form Life-Altering Bond

The Ellen DeGeneres Show was known for occasionally calling an unsuspecting studio audience member up to the stage. The Lucky 13 were part of that elite club. The host recognized these guests, individually, for their positive spirit and impact on their communities. Then the host surprised them with gifts such as a new car or cash prizes. What happened next was life-altering.

Over the years the 12 guests viewed each other’s featured episodes from living rooms across the country but never met in person … until November 12, 2015. That was the date they all were in the studio audience for The Ellen DeGeneres Show’s 2000th episode which aired during the show’s 13th season. The 12 past guests bonded that day and continued to stay in touch after the show. Now, the Lucky 13 have become more than lifelong friends. They’ve become family.

The Lucky 13 Remember Lisa Jarmon

Four years after the 2000th episode aired the Lucky 13 reunited on the show once again. This time in remembrance of Lisa Jarmon – one of the members of the group who had recently passed away from breast cancer. Lisa’s zest for life and indomitable spirit landed her a recurring seat next to the host over the years. The show transformed this single-mom’s life with a custom-built home, a new car, and, after her diagnosis, a check to help with medical expenses.

After Lisa lost her battle with breast cancer The Ellen DeGeneres Show invited the Lucky 13 back to the show to celebrate Lisa’s life. Members of the group recalled inspirational conversations they had with Lisa. They reminisced about her infectious positive energy and how she had changed each of their lives for good. To honor Lisa’s legacy the host announced the start of the Lisa Jarmon Fund. The memorial fund provides financial awards for people who exemplify the same qualities as Lisa. Next, the host dedicated a seat in the studio audience with Lisa Jarmon’s name.

The Lucky 13 Honors The Ellen DeGeneres Show by Giving Back

As The Ellen DeGeneres Show aired its 19th and final season, the host welcomed back the Lucky 13 one last time. The group expressed how their experiences on the show – and the friendships they’ve made as a result – have been life-changing. Inspired by the host’s generosity the Lucky 13 have dedicated their lives to giving back to their communities. To help them do just that the host had one final surprise for the Lucky 13. The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to give each guest a $10,000 TisBest Charity Gift Card. The Lucky 13 will pay it forward to their favorite charities – sprinkling more love and kindness into the world – just as The Ellen DeGeneres Show did for 19 seasons.

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post The Ellen DeGeneres Show Welcomes Back the Lucky 13 appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like Quilen Blackwell of Southside Blooms, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

Quilen Blackwell is the founder of Chicago Eco House — a nonprofit organization that transforms vacant lots in Chicago into sustainable flower farms. Stemming off that initiative is Southside Blooms, a brick-and-mortar shop that sells the farm-grown arrangements. The mission of both organizations is to alleviate inner city poverty and restore the environment through sustainable farming.

Wisconsin Native Finds True Calling in Chicago

Quilen Blackwell was raised in a dual-income family in Madison, Wisconsin. Blessed with opportunity he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and went on to serve in the Peace Corps in Thailand. After moving back to the States, he wanted to find his purpose. He volunteered as a tutor at a high school on the South Side of Chicago. That was when he saw, first hand, the extreme poverty in the community. His students were surrounded by gang violence, crime, and drugs. Quilen felt compelled to help these black teens find a path to a brighter future.

Southside Blooms Plant Seeds of Opportunity

According to Chicago Eco House, the overall unemployment rate in Englewood, Chicago is 22 percent and the unemployment rate among black youths (ages 16-24) is 50 percent. The poverty rate is 44 percent. Quilen’s mission is to change these statistics.

As Quilen grew accustomed to city life he noticed that there are hundreds of vacant lots throughout Chicago. In 2014, he became inspired to turn these abandoned lots into a land of opportunity. Through his non-profit organization Chicago Eco House, Quilen started transforming lots into sustainable flower farms that provide jobs for at-risk teens and formerly incarcerated people in the community. First, Quilen created a flower farm in the Englewood neighborhood. Then he transformed several other vacant lots spanning from the South Side to the West Side and even one in Gary, Indiana. Next, in 2019, he launched a brick-and-mortar flower shop in Englewood called Southside Blooms.

Flowers That Empower

Southside Blooms is a farm-to-vase shop that employs 50 youth annually and 300 in after-school programs. The teens plant and harvest flowers, care for the pollinating honey bees, design bouquets, and make corsages and centerpieces to sell at the shop. The youth also package honey from the farms’ hives, make seed paper greeting cards, and pour beeswax candles.

Southside Blooms empowers at-risk teens to work their way out of poverty. In an interview with Forbes Magazine, Quilen shared, “These young people want an opportunity to prove themselves. They want to learn skills, make some money, and provide value to their families and communities. We’re helping them do this with flowers. The name Southside Blooms represents not only the flowers, but also the neighborhoods and the people who live in them, blossoming.”

Inner City Farm Thrives Off the Grid

In addition to keeping kids off the streets, Southside Blooms is taking care of Mother Earth. The commercial floral industry is notoriously known for using herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers. Southside Blooms relies solely on natural resources and regenerative farming practices to protect and restore the environment.

Each flower farm is 100% sustainable and solar-powered and pollinated by their own honeybees. The farms divert and capture rainwater from the roofs of adjacent buildings. It is stored in recycled containers and then released into the flower beds. This natural solar and irrigation system eliminates the two major operating expenses in farming – water and power. That allows Southside Blooms to use 100% of its proceeds to pay its workers and create more flower farms throughout the city. The flower farms also compost all the organic material generated on site, and use biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable packaging options wherever possible.

Flower Farm Business is Blooming

Southside Blooms receives about 40% of its revenue from sales. The rest comes from donations and grants from foundations, corporations, and individuals. Every purchase and donation helps create jobs for at-risk youth. 

When The Ellen DeGeneres Show learned of Quilen’s story, they wanted to start another chapter. Guest host Leslie Jones presented Quilen with a $10,000 check from TisBest Philanthropy. Now Quilen’s flower farms are in full bloom with plans to convert more abandoned lots and create more jobs!

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post Southside Blooms Gives At-Risk Teens a Fresh Start appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like Emeka Nnaka, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

Former semi-pro football player Emeka Nnaka has suffered devastating trauma. At age 21 he was paralyzed from the chest down after tackling an opponent on the football field. Nine years later his accessible van that he drove to work, school, and volunteer events was totaled. Then, his father, his primary caregiver, broke his ankle and could no longer assist Emeka. Two weeks later, Emeka’s apartment caught on fire and he lost his home. Despite all of this, Emeka’s faith remained strong. Now he helps teens who have experienced trauma find strength through their adversity.

Emeka Nnaka Finds Light in the Darkness

In 2009, Emeka Nnaka was a defensive tackle for the Oklahoma Thunder semi-professional football team. While tackling an opponent during a game he heard a crack. The 21-year-old athlete broke his neck and endured a 9 hour surgery and months of rehab. He was declared paralyzed from the chest down. First, Emeka was in denial. Then he felt anger, fear, and uncertainty and spiraled into a deep depression. At his darkest moment Emeka realized he had two choices. He could either stay in that dark place or use his experience to be a light for others. Fortunately, Emeka chose the latter.

Paralyzing Injury Leads to Inspiring Career

First, Emeka started volunteering at a youth group. He immediately saw the positive impact he had on the kids when he shared his story. That’s when he realized his injury was leading him to a higher calling. Emeka became a motivational speaker and an active volunteer in his community. Then, he went back to school and earned a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Services. Next, he earned a master’s degree in Human Relations and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Now, Emeka uses his life experiences to help teens navigate through difficult times.

Emeka Nnaka is an Advocate of Hope

Emeka Nnaka is a mental health counselor at A New Way Center in Tulsa, OK. The group offers a unique approach to individual, family, and community-based counseling. As part of the center’s Therapeutic Classroom Model, Emeka works at Traice Academy to provide in-school counseling services for students and the teachers and staff who support them. Emeka also volunteers at the Youth Services of Tulsa serving homeless and at-risk youth and their families. It’s the only Tulsa non-profit organization serving adolescents and young adults. 

Through his work and volunteer efforts, Emeka teaches teens how to cultivate the power of hope during personal struggle. Hope was Emeka’s saving grace as he learned to live with his disability. Then he relied on it once again when his life took another unexpected turn.

Bad Things Happen in Threes

Nine years after his life-changing injury on the football field, Emeka was in another accident. This time it was a minor car crash. Fortunately, Emeka was unharmed. However, his handicap-accessible van was totaled. Two weeks later, Emeka’s father, who is his primary caregiver, broke his ankle and was unable to assist him. Two weeks after that, Emeka’s apartment complex caught on fire. Emeka lost his home and most of his belongings, but he did not lose his positive spirit or infectious smile. He continued to work and volunteer in the community to improve others’ lives – even while his own life was turned upside down.

Tulsa Community Reaches Out to The Ellen DeGeneres Show

The Tulsa community was so inspired by Emeka’s positivity, they wanted to share his story of selflessness and generosity. Over 50 community members wrote to The Ellen DeGeneres Show to share all the good Emeka was doing in Tulsa. Many of them affectionately referred to him as Amazing Emeka, a Tulsa Treasure.

In 2018, The Ellen DeGeneres Show invited “Amazing Emeka” as a guest on the show. The host was so touched by Emeka’s ability to smile and give back to others while he was experiencing such hardship. To help him rebuild his life, The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with Cheerios to give Emeka a check for $100,000. 

Emeka Rebuilds Through the Kindness of Strangers

A few months later, the host invited Emeka back to the show to check in on how he was doing. He said a few months earlier he felt as if the sky was falling, but now felt like he was flying. With his $100,000 gift he was able to purchase a new wheelchair-accessible van, which he affectionately calls “Ellen.” Then he shared how the Tulsa Habitat for Humanity reached out to him after his first appearance on the show. To his surprise, the organization, and a group of community volunteers, built him an adaptable home with features including a no step entry, roll in showers, and an extra wide garage for easier vehicle access.

After hearing the good news, The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with Cheerios once again to give Emeka another reason to celebrate. The host presented him with a $20,000 check for Tulsa Youth Services. Emeka used the funds to purchase TVs, games, and other supplies for the teen shelter. 

Emeka Nnaka Gets a Heartwarming Housewarming Gift

The Ellen DeGeneres Show invited Emeka back to the studio for the show’s final season. During his on-air reunion with the host, Emeka reflected on his life’s setbacks and successes and how those experiences inspire youth who struggle with physical disabilities and/or emotional trauma. The life lesson he teaches at the Traice Academy and Tulsa Youth Services is that “Life is not about the ‘me’. It’s about the ‘we’.” He encourages teens to recycle their trauma into something good for others.

In the spirit of giving back, the host had one final surprise for Amazing Emeka. After learning that Emeka still owes more than $75,000 on his house, The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to free him of his debt. Emeka was presented with a $100,000 check to pay off his mortgage!

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post Amazing Emeka Nnaka Recycles Trauma into Triumph appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like LaKisha Thomas, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

Principal LaKisha Thomas refers to her students as scholars at the Franklin D. Roosevelt High School of Innovation. She believes that positive language has the power to influence and motivate these young minds. Her leadership style not only reflects the school’s name, but also impacts her scholars’ lives long after graduation.

Business Major Pivots from Corporate to Classroom

LaKisha Thomas earned a degree in business and lasted about a month in the corporate world. Feeling unsatisfied, she reached out to God to find her true calling. That led her to ask herself what type of work she enjoys doing for free. LaKisha reflected on her teenage years in Longview, TX where she taught Sunday school at her church. She also enjoyed tutoring children in her spare time. That was the lightbulb moment when she decided to leave the business world to become an educator.

LaKisha Thomas Turns Students into Scholars

During her 22-year career LaKisha worked in various school districts in the Greater Dallas area. After serving as Principal for T.W. Browne Middle School she landed her current position at Roosevelt High School. According to greatschools.org, the school is far below the state average for college and career readiness.

However, LaKisha Thomas believes that the power of words has the ability to change the atmosphere and influence outcomes. As a single mom, she uses positive language with her own sons. Each morning she greets them by saying “Wake, pray, slay the day.” Then, she carries that same positive energy into her school. She refers to her students as scholars to let them know that they are all capable of learning and success. She ends every morning announcement by saying “You are champions. Let’s have a great day of teaching and learning.” She repeatedly calls them scholars because she believes if they keep hearing it long enough they’ll start to believe it. LaKisha sets up her students for success in both her words and her actions.

Principal’s Impact Lasts Long After Graduation

The majority of Franklin D. Roosevelt High School’s student population comes from low-income households. LaKisha Thomas pays out of pocket to provide students with haircuts, clothes, groceries, or whatever they need. She also pays for expenses related to after-school activities. Her dedication and commitment to her scholars does not go unnoticed.

Although this is LaKisha’s first year at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, her unique leadership style has impacted hundreds of students. Many of her former students who had her as a teacher or principal in elementary or middle school invited her to their graduations and weddings. They even call her to help them with an upcoming interview or to celebrate a promotion.

Former Scholars Surprise LaKisha on The Ellen DeGeneres Show

LaKisha Thomas loves to celebrate all things positive. Her enthusiasm was caught on camera when she was dancing in the aisles at The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Then, to her surprise, guest host tWitch invited LaKisha up on the stage as a guest on the show. LaKisha talked about her passion for teaching and the power of words. Next, her former students surprised her with some inspirational words of their own. tWitch presented a video of some of LaKisha’s former scholars thanking her for being such a positive role model in their lives. In fact, one scholar said that she wouldn’t be the mom she is today if it weren’t for LaKisha.

After the emotional presentation, LaKisha was given one more reason to celebrate. The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to give LaKisha a check for $10,000! She will use the funds to continue her legacy – using positive language and providing financial assistance for future scholars at the Franklin D. Roosevelt High School.

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post LaKisha Thomas Motivates Students Through the Power of Words appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

One week after Russia’s attack on Ukraine, Hollywood couple Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher created a Stand with Ukraine GoFundMe page to help with relief efforts. Their mission was to raise $30 million. In just two weeks the couple surpassed their goal as the fundraising platform received over $35 million in donations. The funds are being used to help provide emergency supplies and temporary housing for refugees.

Actress Pays Homage to Ukrainian Roots

Many celebrities, like Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, have used their platform to raise funds for Ukraine. However, this crowdfunding campaign is quite personal. Mila was born in the Ukrainian city of Chernivtsi in 1983. When Mila was seven years old she and her family immigrated to the U.S. Her parents arrived with $250 in their pockets and the hope that their children would one day live the American dream. Although Mila has found fame and fortune in the U.S. she is proud of her Ukrainian heritage. Now she and her husband are sharing their wealth to give back to Mila’s native country and asking others to do the same.

Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Stand with Ukraine

On March 3, 2022, Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher started a GoFundMe page to help with humanitarian efforts for refugees. In a video announcement on their social accounts the couple agreed to match the first $3 million in donations. Within two weeks the page tallied over $35 million from over 75,000 donors. 

According to CNBC.com wealthy donors gave the page the initial boost. Among them were billionaire Larry Ellison, the chairman of Oracle, who donated $5 million. Silicon Valley private equity firm DST Global contributed $3 million, and the family foundation of DST partner Yuri Milner gave $2.5 million. Then an overwhelming number of the couple’s friends and fans sent in contributions ranging anywhere from $5 to a few hundred dollars – proving that every dollar makes a difference.

Donations Provide Emergency Supplies and Housing for Refugees

Through the GoFundMe.org platform funds raised by Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher are distributed directly to two organizations supporting Ukrainian refugees. Flexport.org organizes and ships relief supplies into Ukraine and to refugee sites in Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, and Moldova. Donations help ship critical aid, including hospital beds and medical equipment, to Ukrainian refugees and other people in need. One semi-truck delivers 9,750 meals. One air cargo container ships 1,000 sanitation kits to prevent diseases. One shipping container transports 5,000 tarps for emergency shelter.

Funds from the couple’s Stand with Ukraine GoFundMe page also support Airbnb.org which is providing free, temporary housing for refugees. More than 1,200 people have received temporary accommodations through Airbnb.org in Europe. Over 28,600 people have signed up to offer their homes to refugees through Airbnb.org, including more than 17,800 across Europe and more than 5,800 in the US.

Celebrity Couple Uses Social Media for Social Impact

After Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher unexpectedly surpassed their fundraising goal, the couple posted a thank you video on Instagram. Ashton said, “While this is far from a solution for the problem, our collective effort will provide a softer landing for so many people as they forge ahead into their future of uncertainty. Our work is not done. We will do everything we can to ensure that the outpouring of love that came as a part of this campaign finds maximum impact with those in need.” Then Mila encouraged everyone to keep donating – either through their Stand with Ukraine GoFundMe page or other Ukraine relief foundations. She reminded followers that “This is the beginning of a very long journey.”

President Zelensky Shows His Appreciation

Shortly after exceeding their fundraising goal Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher received another surprise. They were invited to join a video call with President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukraine leader expressed his gratitude for the couple’s support stating that Mila and Ashton were among the first to help with relief efforts. Then President Zelensky shared a screenshot of their call on Twitter saying “Grateful for their support. Impressed by their determination. They inspire the world. #StandWithUkraine.”

The Ellen DeGeneres Show Sends $30K in Ukraine Aid Through TisBest

Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher truly have inspired the world — including another celebrity who also uses her platform to give back. The Ellen DeGeneres Show has welcomed both Mila and Ashton to the studio many times. For the show’s final season, Mila Kunis was invited back to talk about her personal connection to Ukraine. After congratulating Mila on her fundraising campaign’s success, the host gave the GoFundMe page another boost. The Ellen DeGeneres Show partnered with TisBest Philanthropy to contribute $30,000 to the Stand with Ukraine relief efforts.

Here’s How You Can Help

There are more than 10 million refugees in need of emergency aid and shelter. Even a small donation can make a big impact. Consider making a donation to the Stand With Ukraine GoFundMe page or click here to see our list of Ukraine relief charities that you can support with your TisBest Charity Gift Card.

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Raise Over $35 Million for Ukraine Aid appeared first on TisBest.

TisBest is on a mission to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. In that spirit we like to feature heartwarming stories of special people, like Jaleel Ritchwood, who are also doing good in this world. We hope it inspires you to spread some kindness and love in your communities.

According to the National Education Association only 2% of America’s teachers are black men. Yet studies show that black students who have at least one black teacher are more likely to graduate high school and attend college. Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan is not only improving outcomes for black and brown students at his school, but also creating equality for children with special needs. He is an advocate for change in the classroom and in his community.

Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan Speaks out for Special Needs Students

Jaleel is a special education teacher at Marion P. Thomas Charter High School. The Title 1 public school is located in a low-income community in Newark, NJ. The staff encourages students to reach their greatest potential and be their authentic selves everyday. However, Jaleel noticed that not all children were treated equally. 

Jaleel decided to become a special needs educator when he noticed a lack of resources for autistic children. While other students went on field trips the special needs students stayed in the classroom. Jaleel became an advocate for these students to give them the same opportunities as everyone else. He does not allow labels such as IEPs, behavior challenges, or autism define a child’s potential. He believes all children have the ability to succeed. They just need someone in their corner to guide them along their own unique path.

Teacher Uses His Salary to Pay for Students’ Basic Needs

Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan’s compassion for his students goes beyond the classroom walls. Though he does not have biological children of his own, Jaleel has become a father figure to hundreds of students every year. Many of his students’ families cannot afford some of the basic necessities. Jaleel ensures that none of his students go without them. Whether a student needs a haircut, braids, or a new pair of shoes Jaleel pays out-of-pocket. He refers to his students as his babies and sets them on a path to adulthood.

Newark Educator is Founder of Boys To Men

Jaleel is a special needs educator by day and a talented musician by night. Although he is not part of the 80s R&B trio Boyz II Men, that is the name of his youth mentorship program at Marion P. Thomas Charter School. Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan created the Boys To Men Mentorship Club to provide a positive influence for the black and brown boys at his school. It’s a safe space where students can talk about their experiences as people of color. Many of them live in communities riddled with drugs and gangs and do not have a positive male role model in their life. Jaleel wants his students to see that there is a better path. He believes it gives them hope to see a black teacher from their hometown who made it through the same struggles they’re experiencing.

Boys To Men sponsors “Dress for Success” days where students wear a suit and tie and attend motivational conferences. The students, on their own accord, also volunteer to make a difference in their communities. They’ve participated in community clean up sweeps and also collected and distributed over 100 coats for the homeless and residents in need.

Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan Helps Inner City Kids Move from Victim to Victor

Boys To Men is only one way Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan gives back to his community. In addition to teaching and mentoring he is also a gospel singer, known as JaRich, who uses his talent for the greater good. Using the income from his day job and performance gigs, Jaleel created a nonprofit called Victim to Victor in 2017. The organization inspires young people in Newark to be the change they want to see in their community. Through Victim to Victor, Jaleel provides scholarships to help students with educational expenses. He also gives presents and food to those in need during the holidays. According to MSN.com Jaleel recently released two new albums. He used the proceeds to help feed the homeless in the city. He also hosted a book bag and prayer drive called “The Genesis Explosion” to foster a sense of community and love.

Hats off to Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan

The Ellen DeGeneres Show is all about spreading the love. Touched by Jaleel’s impact on his community the host invited Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan to be a guest on the show. Jaleel sat down with guest host tWitch to talk about the importance of black teachers as role models. Since Jaleel has an affinity for wearing many hats (both literally and figuratively) tWitch challenged Jaleel to a fun game. He showed three hats on the screen and asked him to pick one for the chance to win a prize. To Jaleel’s surprise it was a gift from The Ellen DeGeneres Show and TisBest Philanthropy. They partnered together to give Jaleel a $10,000 TisBest check to support Victim to Victor!

In addition to his mentoring and vocal talents, Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan is also an actor, poet, and author. In his book, Through My Eyes, Jaleel recounts some of the lessons he’s learned growing up in inner-city Newark, NJ. It’s a motivational story to help young adults reframe negative thought patterns and manifest a better outcome. 

Create More Warm Fuzzies!

Join us in the movement to #RedefineGifting by replacing gifts of stuff with gifts of good. If you feel inspired by this heartwarming story, spread a little more love in our world. Send a TisBest Charity Gift Card to those close to your heart so they can pay it forward to a charity that is close to theirs. Or give a card to a stranger as a random act of kindness. Together, you’ll do a world of good.

Share your giving stories with us on social by tagging your post with #RedefineGifting.

The post Special Needs Teacher Jaleel Ritchwood-Jordan Advocates for Student Equality appeared first on TisBest.