Real Heroes Cut Grass

REAL HEROES CUT GRASS

After an unexpected year in 2020, many people found themselves facing challenges they had not before. It was a time to learn, adjust, and grow. It was in this year that Brian Schwartz, previously a digital advertiser, found the inspiration to start his own 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, I Want To Mow Your Lawn (IWTMYL). His service is extraordinarily unique as he provides 100% free lawn-mowing to senior citizens, veterans, disabled and anyone who needs assistance. Brian currently has over 175 volunteers across 37 states that have helped to clean up over 500 lawns. His business has become a movement to uplift others, spread kindness and pursue environmentally friendly practices.

ECHO had the pleasure of interviewing Brian after granting him the Winner for the ECHO Hero Contest. The contest seeks out pro heroes who are dedicated and passionate about their work. His story is meant to be shared and ECHO could not be prouder to do it. 

Two years ago, Brian faced adversity losing his digital advertising job, a field he had been in for 15 years while raising his newborn, Dylan. With COVID-19 at its peak, it was a challenging time for most. Brian felt as though his world was caving in and pondered what to do to ease his mind. It seemed that every time he looked at the news, millions of Americans were losing their jobs. It was an anxiety-ridden time and instead of succumbing to the anxiety, Brian decided to do something to calm his mind: lawn mowing.

“I went outside to clear my own mind, to figure out life and mowing my own lawn, it felt nice. It felt therapeutic.”

He offered assistance to his neighbors and word soon got around about the free lawn work he was doing. A local newspaper picked up his story and it was after this that the ball started rolling. Brian looked around and saw people with a similar story as his, either being laid off or furloughed. He was able to get volunteers this way and create a community for his services. 

I Want To Mow Your Lawn caught on like wildfire. Mainstream news got word of Brian and shared his story. Clients and volunteers were coming in left and right after hearing of his services. In less than 2 years, IWTMYL exploded. This traction wasn’t expected but it soon created another meaning in Brian’s life. 

“I found my true meaning and purpose to keep it going.”

He continued to keep his organization 100% free of charge for all clients despite his rapid expansion. I Want To Mow Your Lawn became more than a business, it became a movement to help others and spread kindness; it felt good for him to give back to people and to help in at least one aspect of someone’s life. 

Brian inspires both those in and outside of the lawn care industry. Brian shares that his job is more than a job but the connection that’s tied to it. It became his character and his life to spread goodness. He learned that what goes around, comes around.

Currently sitting at 500 completed lawns over 37 states, Brian hopes to complete his goal of 1,500 lawns in all 50 states by the end of 2022. He states he will achieve this by continuing to reach out to those in need and help others. He is more than thankful for all the coverage that has helped him boost IWTMYL, and hopes for more so he can continue to do what he loves – help others in need.