A disabled veteran named Oklahoman Adam Ely who has served his country is now on a mission of continuing his dream of becoming a special education teacher for children with disabilities.
The former paratrooper and helicopter mechanic is a full-time college student, husband and dad is making a difference in other people’s lives by helping them.
The idea of serving others came into his mind when he offered to fix his daughter’s friend’s car. Adam fixes people’s vehicle for free, only charges for parts.
Adam and his wife Toni set Hard Luck Automotive Services to serve more people.
“I’ve never turned anyone away. It doesn’t matter about economic status, race, or creed. I don’t even care if people take advantage, I will help them, regardless.”
He is a disabled veteran and receives money from the Veterans Association of America.
“If you can afford the parts, I’ll fix it for free.”
A customer, Tamesha Rayes who was also a veteran is in college and raising her son. She asked Adam to help her when her car broke down, she told the BBC.
“My car’s essential to take my eight-year-old son to school and for me to go to college. I was in a big mess and Adam helped us tremendously. He’s a lifesaver.”
Adam even invited Tamesha’s son to spend time with him while working on their car.
“My son Tysen was so impressed as he showed him his tools, and let him help out. He didn’t stop talking about him afterward. He still tells everyone he’s going to be a mechanic like Mr. Adam!”
Adam’s wife Toni designed and sells T-shirts to help balance some of their expenses. “It might not help me, but if a single mom, for example, saves $100 on parts, that’s the best. It’s such a great feeling to be able to give back to people. I get so much more out of it than they do, to see that their burden is taken off them.”
Adam received a tip from two of his customers in past years as they were impressed by his service.
“One gave me $50, and another emptied the contents of his wallet into my hand, which came to $43.”
“My wife and I do this because we can. It doesn’t cost us anything, but our time and a little bit of gas traveling to folks. We have been blessed and have met some of the best people since starting Hard Luck Auto Services. Being able to give back to our community is truly the best feeling.”
[rumble video_id=vcb57 domain_id=u7nb2]