The Downtown Reno Partnership‘s Grant Denton was named today the most recent City of Reno Superhero. Denton, a recovering drug addict, was homeless for three years. He comes from a broken family, was a high-school dropout, and became a performer on the Las Vegas Strip.
He tearfully told his story today during a City Council meeting.
“A few years ago my son and I, my 8-year old, moved out here and it was a real hard challenge at first — for six months we were almost homeless,” he said. He credited Pat Cashell of the Volunteers of America for helping him out.
“Most people want to give back. They just need a platform,” he added. “They say that what you do for yourself in this lifetime dies with you; what you do for others becomes your legacy. So thank you for allowing me to serve you.”
City leaders praised him and his efforts and work with the Downtown Reno Partnership, where he serves as operations manager.
“They say that what you do for yourself in this lifetime dies with you; what you do for others becomes your legacy.”
“His life story is one of resounding resilience and a pay-it-forward mentality, which we can all learn from,” said Councilmember Neoma Jardon.
Denton also started the Karma Box Project, whereby boxes have been installed around the city and citizens donate into them items to help those in need. He helps host the Recovery Brothers with Sober Sally radio show.
Also recognized today was DoughBoys Donuts.
“DoughBoys Donuts makes it a priority to support the community in which they live and do business,” according to a press statement by the city. “DoughBoys has bolstered a number of schools, nonprofit organizations, Little Leagues and community events through sponsorships and donations.”
“The City of Reno is extremely proud to recognize DoughBoys Donuts,” Jardon said. “Jay and his staff have truly made a difference in our community. They have set a high standard for philanthropy, and have become a shining example for how a business can give back.”
