I have to be honest.  A few weeks ago, when I saw the video circulating Facebook of the  ALS Ice Bucket Challenge prank being played on a 14 year old autistic boy in Bay Village video, I couldn’t watch.  Horrible acts like that tear too much at my heartstrings, and it was easier for me to let everyone else spread the word to try to catch the people than it was for me to share the message.

Then, I noticed that celebs like Drew Carey, Jenny McCarthy, and Donnie Wahlberg put together a pretty hefty reward to help find the kids that did it, I again refused to watch the video, thought it was awesome that they were doing this, and sat back in silence.

This week, I found out that GiveForward who is the world’s #1 fundraising site for helping people in need, started a fundraiser to help show this amazing 14 year old boy love and kindness!

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I finally decided to sit down and watch the video.  [Knowing what you know about what is poured on him, the video is graphic.]

This was my first step in not being a bystander.  I will no longer watch this video circulate while I stand idly by and do nothing – and I encourage you to do the same.

Join me as I show this awesome kid, his family and friends, as well as the rest of the world that we will not tolerate bullying!  We will not stand for people taking advantage of others. We stand behind him and anyone who has been wronged and kindness WILL overcome.

Since the incident, 5 teens between the ages of 14 and 17 have been identified after the school used this incident as a “teachable moment” and the students of his school held a rally in support of the boy! I urge you to continue that love and support by sharing his GiveForward fundraiser and donating if you feel led to do so!

I can’t imagine what it was like for this child to be betrayed by those around him who he thought were his friends.  I can’t imagine the heartsinking hurt that his mother and family went through when they found out about this ordeal.  I’d love to see this fundraiser meet and far surpass the donation goal!

Share or Donate with GiveForward

Today is your day to stop being a bystander!  Thank you for your support!

Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored post.  I was compensated by GiveForward to help spread the word about this cause.