Milton Hershey’s Legacy Inspires Generations of Change-Makers

Milton Hershey’s legacy continues to inspire individuals like Jason Wolfe, demonstrating how personal challenges can lead to significant societal contributions. Born in 1857 in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, Hershey faced numerous obstacles before creating a global chocolate empire and establishing a charity that supports underprivileged children.

Hershey’s journey began when he dropped out of school at the age of 12 due to his family’s frequent relocations. Initially, he apprenticed as a printer and later in the candy and ice cream industry. Despite experiencing two business failures in Philadelphia and New York City, he remained undeterred. At age 30, he returned to Lancaster and founded the Lancaster Caramel Company, which ultimately led him to establish the Hershey Chocolate Company.

Hershey’s breakthrough came when he perfected a formula combining milk, sugar, and cocoa, resulting in the iconic Hershey bar. In 1900, he sold his caramel company for $1 million to focus entirely on chocolate production. He then moved his operations back to his hometown, where he not only created a successful business but also a thriving community known as Hershey.

A Vision for Community

Unlike typical company towns of that era, Hershey prioritized the well-being of his employees. He invested in schools, parks, and housing, fostering a supportive environment. In 1898, Hershey and his wife, Catherine Sweeney, who could not have children, decided to use their wealth to help others. They founded the Hershey Industrial School, now called the Milton Hershey School, to provide education and care for orphaned boys.

The school has evolved significantly since its founding in 1909. What began with just ten boys now serves over 1,800 students, offering comprehensive support including education, housing, and health care, with no financial obligation to their families. The Milton Hershey Trust, established in 1909, has grown its assets to exceed $7 billion today, significantly contributing to the school’s continued success and outreach.

Transformation Through Adversity

Jason Wolfe, an alumnus of the Milton Hershey School, embodies the transformative impact of Hershey’s vision. Abandoned by his father, Wolfe was placed in the school at the age of 10. There, he flourished in an environment that emphasized discipline and compassion. He graduated in 1987 and later attended Bloomsburg University.

Wolfe’s journey to success was not without challenges. After a serious spinal injury in his twenties, he turned to self-education in computer programming. This endeavor led him to create one of the first online coupon sites in 1995, during the early days of the Internet. His venture eventually evolved into Giftcards.com, which now boasts annual sales exceeding $110 million.

Wolfe credits his upbringing at the Milton Hershey School for instilling in him the values of resilience and philanthropy. He actively participates in charitable projects, including mission work in Haiti, continuing the legacy of giving back initiated by Hershey. “Probably, subconsciously it was inside me that I wanted to walk in his footsteps,” Wolfe reflects on the influence of Milton Hershey.

The stories of Milton Hershey and Jason Wolfe illustrate a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Both men chose to use their challenges as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks, ultimately creating legacies that benefit future generations. Their journeys remind us of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many, especially when fueled by a commitment to betterment.

As people enjoy a Hershey bar or select a gift card for a loved one, they may reflect on the inspiring paths of those who have turned personal hardship into a force for good. Such stories continue to resonate and encourage others to strive for excellence, no matter the circumstances.