Ryan Hickman understood at the age of 3 that he didn’t like seeing discarded bottles and cans on the ground, so he took action. Hickman began collecting his family’s recyclables and then traveled to the local recycling center with his father, where he received $5 for the load. He was so impressed by that exercise that he began collecting his neighbors’ recyclables by going door-to-door on his bike with a bag attached. Ryan’s Recycling Company was established by the seven-year-old youngster from Orange County, California.
Hickman, now 13, has been recognized by news organizations over the years, including CNN Kid Wonder in 2017, and has gone on numerous national television shows, including “Ellen” and “Today,” to discuss his cause. On his website, he sells T-shirts that say, “Make the Sea Trash Free.” All of his goods and recycling revenues are donated to the rescue group Pacific Marine Mammal Center. To date, has raised over $14,000 and assisted in the recycling of 1.5 million cans and bottles.
Hickman has also founded Project 3R, whose purpose is to educate and emphasize the importance of recycling to children and adults globally, as well as to organize and manage community clean-up initiatives.
“If a kid like me can make a difference, anyone can,” Hickman says. “When we all do our part, it adds up to make a big difference.” Thank you for assisting me in cleaning up our earth.”
Ryan’s story is incredible! He started cleaning up the planet at just 3 years old, and now he’s 13, making a huge impact. I’m amazed by his dedication to recycling and helping marine animals. It’s inspiring how he’s raised $14,000 and recycled so many cans and bottles. His Project 3R is spreading the message about recycling worldwide. Ryan’s right, if a kid like him can make a difference, so can all of us. Together, we can create a cleaner, better Earth. Thank you for your important work, Ryan!
The story behind Ryan’s business is inspiring because it demonstrates the importance of having a mission/goal that connects with the mission/goal of the community. Many people support this business because it allows them to be a part of improving nature and making their home more beautiful.