A few months ago CEO, Dan Price, surprised his team when he announced he'd be raising the minimum wage to $70,000 at Gravity Payments. He also slashed his own salary from $1 million down to $70,000!
After a few moments of stunned silence, the team gave Price a standing ovation followed by applause, whistles, and high fives.
Immediately following the announcement, Price's decision captured worldwide headlines sparking a conversation on income inequality. His decision and announcement became the most shared video in the history of NBC News, trended on social media platforms, appeared on the front page of Reddit, and it's reported that the company has received over 7,500 resumes and 500 million messages from all corners of the world!
Of all those messages that rolled in, one stack of 33 letters from a class of sixth graders at Woodbury Elementary in Irvine, CA, stood out from the rest. In those letters were words of encouragement and praise for Price's decision. Among the comments included:
"I honestly support your idea. Your kind heart will touch the lives of all your employees."
"Your inspiring words show me that there are still good people in the world."
"I know some people might give you criticism, but my class and I look up to you for all the sacrifices you've made."
"I find what you have done very humble and generous. Most people with that opportunity would have never done the same."
ALL THE FEELS
According to Gravity Payments' company blog, the class was anxiously awaiting a reply letter from Price, but he had his own surprise in mind.
Price was so touched by their letters that he flew down to California to surprise the class and thank them in person.
He spent the rest of the time chatting with each student, taking pictures, and answering questions.
But Price had one more trick up his sleeve for the kids.
He gave each of them a $1,000 scholarship if they promised to write him one letter a year.
High fives all around.
To watch both surprises in their entirety, WATCH THIS VIDEO.
If you want to spread kindness and restore faith in humanity, share this post with others!
This is hope that there's definitely still good people in the world.
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