Community Comes Together For Starbucks Manager, Raises $40,000 For New Car. She's Completely Surprised!
By Mike-Ross
In a heartwarming story you will love, a Starbucks worker in Huntington, West Virginia, is experiencing a wave of gratitude as her local community has come together to assist her in obtaining a new car.
Karen / Credit: GoFundMe
Karen Collingsworth is employed at the Starbucks located at Marshall University. Unfortunately, she faced a significant setback when her old car was vandalized and severely damaged last week, including the theft of the catalytic converter.
Recognizing the urgent need for her to replace her car, her co-worker Jaiden Horn shared, "We were concerned about the safety of her current vehicle. It was clear she needed something more reliable." As a result, they decided to start a GoFundMe campaign with the goal of raising approximately $5,000.
The donations started pouring in, however, from people who know and love Collingsworth - current students, alumni, faculty and staff.
"Karen always made me smile when I came into Starbucks everyday! She knew my name and my order by heart. She really cared about everyone who came through the doors. When I graduated, she gave me the biggest hug and made me promise to come back and visit! I love you Karen!" one donor wrote.
"Karen saw me through grad school with a huge smile on her face every day. I hope she knows the impact that her presence made on so many people. It's been nearly 10 years since I've seen her but I still remember her fondly!" another wrote.
"Karen always could bring a smile to my face. I graduated in 2015, but still remember how she knew us all and did everything she could to relieve our stress. College is hard enough, but it's people like Karen who made every trip to campus Starbucks to study worth it. Sending lots of love back home to her," another donor commented.
As of Sept. 1, nearly $40,000 has been raised for Karen through the GoFundMe campaign.
Some of the donations have even come from people who have never met Karen and were simply moved by the story and all the wonderful comments.
But the majority of the 1,200 donations are from people who have personally been touched by her kindness.
"The sweetest soul and such a blessing to Marshall. They are SO LUCKY TO HAVE HER!!!!!!! Thank you for all you have done for us over the years - your love hasn't gone unnoticed!" Ciana wrote on GoFundMe.
"Karen, you brightened my day at each visit to Marshall Starbucks. I hope we can help you just like you helped all of us," Savannah commented.
"It's been ten years and I still remember you! Thank you for being there for all of us!" Makenzie wrote.
Watch the heartwarming video below.
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