On the recordMarch 2, 2010
Today I rise in recognition of a fine businessman from Stark County, Ohio. His name is Rodney Napier. His service to the relief effort and helping those in Haiti who need long-term medical care as a result of the earthquake is a show of selfless and truly inspirational giving to the world. Mr. Napier helped found the Granted Wish Foundation, a national non-profit whose mission is "to provide wishful fulfillment to disabled, disadvantaged and deserving individuals and families." When the earthquake shocked Haiti and the world, Mr. Napier made his corporate jet available so that supplies, doctors, missionaries, and other relief workers could get to the island for help. Humbled by what he saw while volunteering himself, he realized he had to do more. He donated nearly $70,000 to the relief effort. He also auctioned off three Super Bowl tickets, totaling $12,000, and the Granted Wish Foundation collected more than $63,000 for Haitians in need. Using these donations, two medical treatment vehicles went to Haiti so that physicians could rehabilitate permanently disabled children. Mr. Napier proves that simple acts of charity can make the difference and save lives. He lives by the biblical lesson that "to whom much is given, much is expected." Whether in our local community or in Haiti, we need leaders like him.
