Alabama Governor Kay Ivey will honor Alabama A&M University alumnus Rodney Smith Jr. during her final State of the State Address at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery on January 13, 2026.
Smith, who is based in Huntsville, founded Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service while he was an undergraduate student at Alabama A&M University. The organization began after Smith helped an elderly man with his lawn and has since grown into an international initiative that encourages young people to serve their communities.
Smith said, “The 50 Yard Challenge began shortly after the organization started in 2016, as a way to give kids a clear goal while teaching responsibility, service and leadership through helping others.” Through this challenge, students commit to mowing 50 lawns for free for elderly residents, people with disabilities, single parents, and veterans. Participants document their work and share progress online. The program has expanded beyond Alabama to all 50 states and several countries including Sweden, South Africa, Australia, and Canada. Smith estimates that tens of thousands of families have received free lawn care and related services since the organization’s founding.
“In over eight countries, we have thousands of kids signing up to make a difference in their community by completing our 50 Yard Challenge,” said Smith. “From our humble beginnings in Huntsville, Alabama, our organization has experienced tremendous growth in just a few short years. Our steadfast goal has always remained the same: making a difference, one lawn at a time.”
To recognize participants’ commitment, Smith developed a system where students earn different colored T-shirts based on how many lawns they complete. Those who finish the full challenge receive a black T-shirt and often get new lawn equipment from Smith himself.
The work of Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service has been featured by national media outlets and recognized by officials outside Alabama as well.
Governor Ivey’s office stated that Smith would be honored for his patriotism and commitment to service as part of preparations for America’s upcoming 250th birthday celebration. The office also highlighted the positive impact on youth engagement and support for families in need.
Smith continues to expand youth programs nationwide but remains based in Huntsville where the organization started. Reflecting on his recognition by Governor Ivey he said: “Honestly, it still feels surreal,” said Smith. “I’m grateful. I never set out for recognition — I simply wanted to help people. Seeing how far this has grown reminds me to stay humble and continue serving.”
He added: “To be acknowledged by the governor, in the state where this journey began while I was a student at Alabama A&M, is incredibly humbling and emotional,” he said. “I’m incredibly grateful to Alabama A&M University for the foundation it gave me — academically and personally. I hope my story encourages students to believe that no act of kindness is too small and that service can truly change lives.”
