The story of Milton Hershey serves as a powerful example of resilience and philanthropy, impacting lives a century apart. Born in 1857 in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, Hershey faced numerous challenges, including dropping out of school at age 12 due to his family’s frequent relocations. Despite early setbacks in his candy ventures, he persevered and eventually founded the Hershey Chocolate Company. His journey from failure to success not only transformed his life but also laid the groundwork for a legacy that continues to inspire.
Hershey’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged in his late twenties after two failed attempts at establishing a candy business in Philadelphia and New York City. At 30, he found success with the Lancaster Caramel Company. Recognizing the growing demand for chocolate, he pivoted to that market, developing the iconic Hershey bar through years of trial and error. In 1900, he sold his caramel company for $1 million, allowing him to focus entirely on chocolate production.
Relocating back to his roots in Derry Township, Hershey not only built a successful company but also established a community that prioritized the welfare of its employees. Unlike typical company towns of the era, he constructed schools, parks, and housing to cater to his workforce. In 1898, he married Catherine Sweeney, and their inability to have children motivated them to create the Hershey Industrial School, now known as the Milton Hershey School. This institution provides education and support for children from low-income families.
The Milton Hershey School has evolved significantly since its inception in 1909. Initially welcoming only ten boys, it now serves over 1,800 students, offering comprehensive support that includes education, housing, and health care. The school operates without financial burden on the families it serves, reflecting Hershey’s commitment to philanthropy. The Milton Hershey Trust, established in 1909 and funded with Hershey’s assets in 1918, has grown to a value exceeding $7 billion, ensuring the school’s sustainability and impact.
Among the school’s many alumni is Jason Wolfe, who entered the Milton Hershey Home at age ten after his mother could no longer care for him and his brothers. Wolfe credits the home with instilling a sense of structure and discipline. After graduating from high school in 1987, he pursued further education at Bloomsburg University.
Wolfe faced his own challenges, including a severe accident that required spinal fusion surgery. During his recovery, he taught himself computer programming, leading him to create the first online coupon site in 1995. This venture laid the foundation for his current company, Giftcards.com, which generates over $110 million in annual sales.
Reflecting on his journey, Wolfe acknowledges the influence of Hershey’s legacy. “Probably, subconsciously it was inside me that I wanted to walk in his footsteps,” he remarked. Both men chose to rise above adversity, using their experiences to create opportunities for others. Their stories serve as a reminder of the potential for resilience and generosity to transform lives.
As we enjoy a Hershey chocolate bar or select a gift card, it is worth contemplating the legacies of Milton Hershey and Jason Wolfe. Their choices to embrace challenges rather than succumb to bitterness continue to inspire countless individuals and foster a culture of giving back.
