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Man traveling country cutting grass joins CMPD for 'Mowing with Cops'

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Raising Men Lawn Care Service is hitting the road again and has made its way to Charlotte. Rodney Smith Jr. is traveling across the country to mow lawns and spread positivity.

"I realize when I go on the road to all 50 states, this is my sixth time, more and more kids join the 50-yard challenge and that's the goal," Smith said.

He does free lawn care across the country for people who are elderly, have a disability, are single parents or veterans.

Smith is expanding his cause to bridge the gap between the community and police.

“This is actually my sixth 50-state tour," he said.

Smith's charity is growing.

Smith joined Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers Friday for "Mowing with Cops."

"My most recent tour my, fifth tour, was for veterans so, I decided I wanted to do something for police officers."

He customized his lawnmower with red and blue flashing lights and is joining forces with police across the country, like Charlotte-Mecklenburg police Capt. Ryan Kendall.

“I wasn't expecting the lights,” Kendall said. “That's a new one on me.”

Smith said he started mowing lawns for the elderly and people with disabilities after noticing so much animosity in the world around him.

"Love thy neighbor, help thy neighbor,” Smith said. “That's what I'm trying to inspire."

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