High school grad's altruism should be example for all

As high school graduation season draws to a close, we look with great anticipation toward the things that tens of thousands of suburban graduates will do with their lives.

We photographed thousands of kids from 83 high schools over the last few weeks, which gives you some idea of the importance we place on education and young people. But one student - and his story - really stood out.

That's not because of a great valedictory speech or a crazily decorated mortarboard. Jonathon Jimenez did something very quietly for someone whose identity isn't known - even to him - and it made commencement more special for that person.

Jonathon, 18, was graduated early from Vernon Hills High School a semester ago. He's been attending classes at the College of Lake County with the plan of becoming a teacher but was allowed to participate in his commencement ceremony with more than 300 classmates.

He also has a job waiting tables, and he's excited about making some money. He decided he wanted to help out a close friend by paying for her cap and gown (one buys the cap and rents the gown) but then learned she didn't need the cash. So, he decided to contribute the $56 (in tip money) to the school so another student not as fortunate as he would have a cap and gown like everyone else.

Disregard for a moment that Vernon Hills High School always manages to come up with the scratch - through a foundation - for students who might have money issues so they can have a cap and gown. The point is, Jonathon wanted to make sure that somebody - anybody - was given an opportunity. And that's what the school did with his money.

It was his way of thanking peers who've helped him in various ways through his years.

"I got a well-paying job recently and thought it was time to give a little back," he told our reporter.

Lest you think Jonathon called us looking for attention, it was his mom, beaming about her son's generosity, who tipped us off. We thought his story and the message it carries was worthy of Page 1 play throughout the Daily Herald's coverage area.

The members of the Class of 2017 have learned a great many things during their studies and activities, but we hope they learn from Jonathon Jimenez the life-affirming joy of helping one's fellow man - without expectation of thanks or even acknowledgment. It doesn't have to be a million dollars or a kidney.

However, regular blood donations and signing up with the Secretary of State's organ donation program are great ways to start.

As Anne Frank said, "No one has ever become poor by giving."