Saul and Keon have never missed a day of work picking up trash in Miami Beach. They’re especially glad they were covering their route this week as a beautiful surprise awaited them. When their huge truck rolled down the street into the community, they found scores of residents who’d gotten up early to line the street with signs and balloons, all to simply say “We love you.”

Jennifer Elegant wanted to show her family’s appreciation so she organized the socially-distanced surprise thank you celebration to honor the essential workers whom she called “extraordinary.” “They bring an incredible, positive energy to the entire neighborhood. Simply put, they spread joy.” Even the Miami Beach mayor, Dan Gelber, showed up to salute them—because Saul and Keon do so much more than pick up trash.

Jennifer went on to say, “What is particularly special about these two men is the positive energy that they bring with them. They always have smiles on their faces and never miss an opportunity to say hello and brighten someone’s day. They also go out of their way to help others and expect nothing in return.”

One day, Saul spent 45 minutes helping a neighbor dig through her trash to help her look for her lost wedding ring. He also waited over an hour with another neighbor who was having heart issues and needed an ambulance.

Jennifer has had “meaningful discussions” with these amazing sanitation workers about their inspiring levels of happiness. She said, “They continue to maintain their upbeat demeanor even during this stressful COVID-19 pandemic, sacrificing their own safety in order to keep our city clean and beautiful. Every day we are surrounded by heroes who bring us inspiration and joy but too often we are unable to recognize these special individuals for the impact they make on others. I wanted Saul and Keon to know that we are thankful from the bottom of our hearts.”