Tuesday, November 3, 2026

What’s Working

For readers looking for what’s still working in the world

KindnessUpworthy

A Red Baron worker was devastated by a mean viral ‘prank.’ Strangers stepped in and changed his life.

In a poignant tale of unexpected kindness, a Michigan-based Red Baron pizza delivery worker, known as Walt Z, found his life transformed after a mean-spirited prank went viral. Initially, the prank, where a man pretended to steal $10 from Walt using Apple Pay, left the hardworking father visibly distressed. He expressed his frustration, highlighting the struggles of balancing demanding work hours with family life. However, the viral video's aftermath saw a heartwarming outpouring of public support. A stranger, Luke Oakenshield, launched a GoFundMe campaign that quickly amassed over $410,000, demonstrating the power of community empathy and action.

This incident underscores the profound impact of collective goodwill. As Walt's story spread, not only did it result in financial support, but it also secured his position at Red Baron, earning him the 'employee of the month' title. The narrative illustrates how acts of kindness can ripple outwards, encouraging others to stand up for fairness and dignity in the workplace. Meanwhile, the prankster's social media presence has been erased, perhaps a reflection of lessons learned about the consequences of thoughtless actions. This story serves as a stirring reminder of the potential for strangers to band together in defense of decency and respect.

Constructive analysis

The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.

The problem
The challenge of maintaining dignity and financial stability in the face of public humiliation and harassment.
The actions
Strangers rallied to support Walt by creating a GoFundMe campaign, raising awareness and funds.
Evidence of progress
The GoFundMe raised over $410,000, and Walt received the 'employee of the month' title from Red Baron.
What we can learn
Communities can effectively counteract negative online behavior by mobilizing support and providing tangible aid, demonstrating the power of collective action and empathy.
PERMA profile of this story

How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.

Positive Emotion
8
Engagement
9
Relationships
8
Meaning
7
Accomplishment
6
PERMA

Character strengths in play

Top VIA strengths this story embodies.

  • Kindness

    A man named Luke Oakenshield, without even knowing the worker’s name, started a GoFundMe in his honor.

  • Courage

    The worker was simply at his wit’s end...as he pleads his case to the man filming.

  • Gratitude

    Walt Z out of Michigan sends a heartfelt thank you, and is absolutely blown away by how much people have cared over this.

Try this today

Consider performing an anonymous act of kindness this week. Whether it's buying a coffee for a stranger or donating to a cause, observe how it influences your mood and perspective on community.