Ever since Ellie Laks was a young girl, she felt a deep connection with animals. Their gentleness and unconditional love has always touched her, and even helped her get through some dark times in her life. Fast-forward to 1999, Ellie was on an errand and happened to drive past a petting zoo that was keeping the animals in terrible conditions. Outraged, she set out to rescue as many of the animals as she could and give them a new home — and what happened next surprised even Ellie.

Ellie Laks: The Gentle Barn

True Stories of Good People is a podcast about people who are making a difference in other people's lives, or have had their lives changed by someone kind.

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Sara and Edgar are the married co-owners behind Nixta Taqueria—a beloved restaurant located in East Austin, Texas. Dedicated to their community, they've gone above and beyond to ensure their community is always fed, regardless of life's circumstances. When the couple faced challenges keeping Nixta open, their community paid it forward and showed up for them in ways they never could have imagined.  

Look What Help Can Do: Sara and Edgar of Nixta Taqueria

DeJuan Strickland knows what it’s like to not be able to afford school lunch. After learning about how many other kids have experienced the same situation, he decided to do something about it. With the help of his mom, Sharron, DeJuan is helping to eliminate lunch debt for as many kids as possible throughout his community.  

Making Sure Kids Have School Lunch: DeJuan Strickland

For Christy Wong and her family, animals have always been a big part of their lives—however, they never imagined that they would someday be operating an entire rescue farm. By creating a safe home for animals and a welcoming space for her community, Kauai Animal Education Farm is helping preserve the local Hawaiian culture and connection to the land. 

Meet Kauai's Only Farm Animal Rescue: Christy Wong

Jelly Robinson is a hairstylist with a special gift for helping children feel safe and confident while getting their hair cut. With her mobile salon, Peace & Love Studios, Jelly is on a mission to make sure children with autism have access to sensory-friendly haircuts.

Sensory-Friendly Haircuts for Kids: Jelly Robinson

Inspired by their mothers' efforts to feed their local San Jose community, Ayaan and Josh are making a difference for those experiencing homelessness with simple peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—and they're inspiring other young people to get involved, too.

Ellie Laks: The Gentle Barn

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