Two police men approached a black teen in Barnesville, Georgia on the campus of Gordon State College. I bet you think you know where this is going. But it isn't. Officers Dicky Carreker and Maria Gebelein were responding to a concern about a tent on the college campus. They found Fred Barley in the tent. After talking with him "the officers became aware of his humility and determined him to be a driven student who had nothing and who was dedicated to his education and to finding a job."

See, Fred Barley is a homeless teen and he rode his younger brother's bicycle over six hours to campus to register for his second semester of classes. When he isn't in his tent, he can be found riding his bike around trying to find a job.

As the story continues, "Inspired by Barley's determination, officers Carreker and Geblein gave him the money they had in their wallets and took him to the Sun Inn motel where they each paid for a night's stay." But it didn't stop there. Members of Barnesville's community soon heard about the story and have brought Barley gift cards, clothes, and food. He was even given a job at the local pizzeria. But what is even better is through a GoFundMe page started by a resident of Barnesville they have raised over $184,000 to pay for Barley's education, and dream of attending medical school. As Officer Carreker said, "It's just beautiful how our community has come together to help someone in need. Barnesville is the epitome of a small town with a big heart."

Source:

Walter Gieger, “Fred Saga: A Small Town with A Big Heart,” Barnesville.com (7-14-16)