READING 3 Forklift Philanthropist

FORKLIFT

PHILANTRHOPIST

Matel “Mat” Dawson, Jr.

Read the following article. Pay special attention to the words in bold. 8.4

When we think of philanthropists1, we usually think of the very rich and famous, such as Andrew Carnegie or Bill Gates. However, Matel Dawson, a forklift2 driver in Michigan, was an ordinary man who did extraordinary things.

Dawson started working at Ford Motor Company in 1940 for $1.15 an hour. By working hard, saving carefully, and investing his money wisely, he became rich. But he didn’t care about owning expensive cars or taking fancy vacations. Instead of spending his money on himself, he enjoyed giving it away. During his lifetime, he donated more than $1 million for college scholarships to help students get an education.

Why did Dawson insist on giving his money away to students? One reason was that he did not have the opportunity to finish school. He had to drop out of school after the seventh grade to help support his poor family. He knew that not having an education limits job possibilities. Also, he learned about giving from his parents. He watched them work hard, save their money, and help others less fortunate. His mother made Dawson promise to always give something back. He was grateful to his parents for teaching him the importance of helping others.

When he became rich, he didn’t change his lifestyle. He continued driving his old car and living in a one-bedroom apartment. And he didn’t stop working until shortly before he died at the age of 81. When asked why he worked long past the time when most people retire, he replied, “It keeps me going, knowing I’m helping somebody.”

1 philanthropist: a person who gives away money to help other people 2 forklift: a vehicle used to lift and carry boxes

COMPREHENSION Based on the reading, write T for true or F for false.

1. Matel Dawson started out poor but became rich. 2. When he was rich, he changed his lifestyle. 3. His goal was to help students get an education.

THINK ABOUT IT Discuss the questions with a partner or in a small group.

1. What do you think of Matel Dawson’s achievement? Do you know anyone else who has done something similar? Share your ideas. 2. Would you change your lifestyle if you became rich? Why or why not? Explain.