Shanelle Kaul hosts The Uplift, sharing warm, human stories that show how everyday people lift each other up.
A sleeping fundraiser
At Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary in Green Bay, Wisconsin, 81-year-old Terry Lauerman volunteers by quietly sitting among the cats — and often falling asleep. Photos of his naps went viral, turning an ordinary habit into an extraordinary fundraiser. Donations surged, helping the sanctuary raise nearly $100,000, expand its space and add a full-time veterinarian. Terry’s gentle visits proved that a humble, authentic gesture can draw attention and resources where they’re needed.
Eagles Jackie and Shadow
In Big Bear, California, nest cameras tracked a dramatic season for bald eagles Jackie and Shadow. After losing a clutch to ravens and mourning the recent death of a local eagle activist, viewers found hope when Jackie was later seen with a new egg. Monitored by Friends of Big Bear Valley, the pair have raised eaglets before; volunteers say they may use delayed incubation so multiple chicks hatch closer together, giving the birds a better chance to thrive.
A swim team rallies for their custodian
In Richardson, Texas, students at J.J. Pearce High School organized a swim-a-thon to help their custodian, Van Le, who had been hospitalized and faced mounting medical bills. Swimmers, coaches and the broader school community raised roughly $17,000, negotiated with the hospital to reduce charges, and surprised Mr. Le with gifts including a bicycle — and even offered him a car. Though he speaks little English, Mr. Le was deeply moved by the support, and the school celebrated how their collective effort eased a neighbor’s crisis.
Girls’ hockey on the rise
Across Northern Virginia and nationwide, girls are increasingly lacing up skates. Youth programs report surges in participation — one local team saw a 50% increase, and USA Hockey notes girls’ registration is up about 65% over 15 seasons. Coaches and parents say hockey builds toughness, teamwork and confidence. Young players practice skating, puck control and game sense, inspired by Team USA and the visibility of women’s hockey role models who show what’s possible.
Pim Neil’s record-setting season
Six-year-old Pim Neil of Pittsburgh overcame multiple disabilities and early setbacks to sell 100,000 boxes of Girl Scout cookies in a single season. The effort caught fire after viral TikTok videos helped spread her story, and the city honored her by declaring February 20 “Pim Neil Day.” Her achievement highlights determination, community support, and the power of social media to amplify a child’s goal.
Honoring the Rosies
Onboard the SS Red Oak Victory in Richmond, California, a team of women welders and restorers is keeping alive the legacy of Rosie the Riveter by repairing a World War II cargo ship built through wartime labor. Volunteers and surviving “Rosies” who once worked in male-dominated trades come together to share skills, restore the vessel, and celebrate women’s essential contributions to industry and history.
The town of friendly people: St. George, S.C.
When a rare winter storm stranded an unhoused man named Chris and his dog Mowgli in St. George, South Carolina, one neighbor, Carlos Canales, gave them food and money and posted a plea on Facebook. The community response was immediate: neighbors tracked them down, raised funds for a motel stay, lent warm clothes and gas, and organized meals and medical help. A retired judge’s assistant, a council member, EMTs, a hairstylist and a retired vet tech all pitched in; the motel manager extended free nights. More than 70 acts of generosity followed. Council member Ruthie Tripp and others called the outpouring proof of the town’s nickname, “the town of friendly people,” noting that the community’s diversity strengthened the effort and that compassion prevailed without judgment.
Why these stories matter
The Uplift highlights simple, human moments — volunteers who quietly save shelters, neighbors who mobilize for a stranger, young athletes supporting a custodian, kids setting records, and communities preserving history. From Jackie and Shadow’s nest to St. George’s rapid response, these stories remind us that compassion, persistence and small acts of kindness add up to real change.