SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Huntsville native Rodney Smith Jr., founder of the nationally recognized Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service, will be among the special guests honored during Governor Kay Ivey’s final State of the State Address, scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the Old House Chamber at the Alabama State Capitol.
The address will mark Ivey’s ninth State of the State speech, capping a historic tenure as Alabama’s longest consecutively serving governor. While former Gov. George Wallace served four four-year terms, his tenure was largely nonconsecutive. Ivey’s service includes two full elected terms, along with nearly two additional years following the resignation of former Gov. Robert Bentley in 2017.
Governor Ivey announced Monday that Smith will be recognized for his patriotism, leadership, and commitment to service as Alabama prepares to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary in the coming year.
“These special guests represent the very best of our state,” Ivey said. “They help tell Alabama’s success story as we continue working together to build an even stronger future.”
Smith’s journey began in 2015 with a simple act of kindness — mowing the lawn of an elderly neighbor in Huntsville. That single moment sparked what has grown into a nationwide and international movement, encouraging young people to serve veterans, military families, first responders, seniors, and others in need.
Through the organization’s “50 Yard Challenge,” participants pledge to complete 50 free lawn services for those unable to do the work themselves. As of January, more than 5,100 young people have participated, with the effort now reaching communities in over eight countries.
The Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service has gained national attention, earning features on CBS News, Good Morning America, Fox News, and other major outlets. Smith’s work has also been recognized beyond Alabama, including a proclamation in Reno, Nevada, declaring February 8 as “Rodney Smith Jr. Day.”
Alongside Smith, the governor will also recognize students from Booker T. Washington K–8 School in Birmingham, a state-designated “Turnaround” school highlighted for academic progress and student achievement.
Ivey’s final address is expected to spotlight individuals and communities across Alabama’s 67 counties who exemplify leadership, resilience, and service — values Smith says he hopes will continue to inspire the next generation.
“Making a difference starts where you are,” Smith has said. “One act of service can change everything.”