This hero portrays the value of APPRECIATION

Everyday Hero: Henri L.

Submitted by almost 5 years ago.

After surviving the concentration camps of World War II (a situation that could have destroyed one's spirit) Henri came to America and served in our military. Through the G.I. Bill he received an education in the hospitality industry. With success in the hotel business he could have justifiably sat back and enjoyed life. Instead he founded Give Kids the World, an organization that grants wishes to families of children with life threatening illnesses that wish to come to the Orlando area's famous theme parks. This led to building the Kids Village, a theme park/fantasy style village of villa's and handicapped accessible resort amenities like minature golf, swimming pool & water park as well as a carousel with a couple of animals capable of accommodating a wheelchair. The whole village: from the Ginger Bread house dinning hall, theatre and Ice Cream parlor to the volunteers and sponsors, provide a week-long escape at no cost to the wish families from around the world. A compassionate soul such as his doesn't stop, he also founded Dignity U Wear providing new clothes and underwear to children in shelters and in need. He also supports other causes and inspires others (like myself) to do more. If you want to be inspired research more about Henri and his Give Kids the World Village.