In 2020, a New Jersey man lost his job and began mowing lawns for free; six years later...

(Photo: Courtesy of Wahl) When Brian Schwartz lost his digital marketing job during the COVID-19 pandemic in the summer of 2020, he pulled out his lawnmower and began cutting grass for elderly neighbors in Wayne, New Jersey. Six years later, that simple act has grown into a nationwide volunteer movement operating in all 50 U.S. states. According to figures published by the initiative's official website, I Want To Mow Your Lawn, the nonprofit network now has more than 2,000 volunteers across the country. Together, they provide free lawn mowing, leaf raking and snow removal for senior citizens, military veterans, people with disabilities and others in need. The organization uses a digital platform to connect local people who have outdoor power equipment with residents who need physical or financial help caring for their properties.Turning redundancy into community serviceSchwartz was working in digital advertising when his firm closed during the pandemic in June 2020, leaving him without a job. He was dealing with isolation and uncertainty and wanted to find an outdoor activity that would keep him active while allowing him to follow social distancing rules. He decided to help older r...