Rachel Roland is a mom on a mission - exploring beautiful Arizona (and beyond!) with her two little companions, Jeremiah and Sarah, in search of the best restaurants, attractions, and products for you and your children. See what she has in store for your family today!
In the light of the current events on the East Coast, people in Florida may be remembering when a hurricane devastated their area. The year was 2004, and the state of Florida was seriously affected when this hurricane suddenly changed course and hit the state further southwest than expected. It was in this tragedy when a young boy, only 8 years old, decided to do something. In his words, he probably didn't really grasp the gravity of what he was doing - but he knew people who once had homes now didn't, and he wanted to help them by sharing. This young man is Zach Bonner, and his simple plan to help fellow Floridians has turned into so much more. His Little Red Wagon Foundation was born, which helps children in distress situations.
Zach's story inspired a great family-friendly movie: Little Red Wagon, which was released in the Phoenix area on Friday, November 2nd. I had the chance to interview Zach about the movie, his foundation, and how it feels to be a 14 year old and running a non-profit organization.
Tell us about the movie The Little Red Wagon.
The Little Red Wagon shows the power of one person. How one small act of kindness can really make a change in a person’s life. It shows how helping others can really change you as a person. It also has an awesome side story of a middle class family and their spiral into homelessness. It is a great movie!
What do you want us to know about homeless children in America?
There are over 1.3 million homeless kids in America. These kids need our help. You can place blame for their situations anywhere you want but you can not blame the kids themselves. They deserve an opportunity to succeed in life. The deserve an equal education, a safe place to sleep and to feel cared for. We can end childhood homelessness if we work together.
What are your goals for the foundation’s next 5 years?
To continue raising awareness and educating people on the issues of homeless youth. Doing projects that not only meet their basic needs but kid needs and to encourage other kids to volunteer.
Zach Bonner is an inspiration for sure - and you can win two passes for the movie! E-mail me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with the subject "Little Red Wagon" to win. The movie is showing at the Harkins Superstition Springs theater (6950 E. Superstition Springs Blvd in Mesa). Thank you Zach for the interview - and I encourage you to see the movie!
Photo courtesy Red Phoenix Photography
I'm Rachel - a mom, wife, and 'green' blogger at Small Steps On Our Journey. If you want me to come visit your place of business, have any questions on this article or suggestions for a future article, you can email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , tweet me at @rachelroland, or connect with me on Facebook.
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