Nehemiah Hamilton, a Gwinnett Youth Commissioner and recent graduate of the State Court’s SMILE program, launched The Little Things, a project to collect toiletries, school supplies and other essentials for children in need.

Inspired by Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, he chose to donate the collected items to the nonprofit Because One Matters and presented them at a special recognition event, unaware that an Amazon truck was arriving with a surprise delivery inspired by his efforts.The Amazon donation included 3,600 essential items and 50 backpacks filled with school supplies for children in foster care.

“This is what leadership looks like,” said Hendrickson. “Nehemiah’s story shows that it doesn’t matter how old you are, you can still be a force for good in your community. And what a beautiful example of public, private and personal sectors working together to uplift others.”

Hamilton never expected his summer project to gain reginal attention.

“I just wanted to help,” Hamilton said. “To see so many people come together to support kids in foster care means a lot to me, and I hope it inspires other young people to get involved.

Terreta Rodgers, head of Community Affairs for Amazon’s Atlanta Region, said the company was moved by Nehemiah’s initiative.

“Seeing a young person take initiative and give back in such a selfless way moved all of us,” said Rodgers. “Nehemiah reminded us that big change can start with one small act. Amazon is proud to be part of honoring that.”

Andrea Barclay, founder of Because One Matters, expressed her gratitude for both donations and emphasized their direct impact.

“These items go directly to children and teens who are often overlooked. They’re being seen and that matters,” Barclay said. “Nehemiah’s heart and Amazon’s generosity will touch so many lives.”

Nehemiah originally set a goal to raise $500 for The Little Things by the end of summer but more than doubled that amount in only two weeks.