After 50-yard challenge, Little Rock 12-year-old inspired by law enforcement

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A 12-year-old boy in Little Rock is continuing his mission of helping others by mowing their yard.

Jayden Nelson first got recognition back in 2022 when he took part in the “50-yard challenge.” Nelson said he is now inspired to do more with a new challenge this summer.

The challenge was created by an Alabama non-profit group, Raising Men and Women Lawn Care Services. The founder Rodney Smith Jr. said that kids 8-17 years old have to mow 50 lawns for the elderly, disabled, veterans or single parents to compete.

“When I saw their faces, it would just make me feel good about myself helping people,” Nelson said.

Nelson says since finishing last year’s challenge he created his own lawn care business, ‘The Reel Deal’ and participated in another challenge put out by the nonprofit, but this time it was to mow the lawns of first responders.

“I had to mow lawns for first responders, police officers, firefighters, people who work in the hospital,” Nelson said.

It’s through these acts of kindness that Nelson became inspired.

“While I was doing the lawn mower, I kept on thinking about wanting to be a police officer,” Nelson said.

Sgt. Willie Davis with the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office says he was amazed by Nelson’s work ethic.

“It’s impressive to know this young man wants to be that difference and that’s important to me,” Davis said.

Nelson said he loves helping others and hopes he can continue to do that.

“I feel happy and good about myself knowing that I made someone’s day,” Nelson said.

Towards the end of this month, Nelson says he is taking part in this year’s Little Rock Police Youth Camp and can’t wait to learn more about service.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com.