In the heart of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a remarkable story of camaraderie and compassion unfolded at Josiah’s Coffeehouse, Cafe & Bakery. This tale revolves around Alex Rust, a dedicated dishwasher whose unwavering commitment to his job has not only earned him the respect of his colleagues but also sparked a touching act of kindness that transcended the typical workplace relationship.
For over six years, Rust has been commuting to work on his bicycle, braving the elements year-round. His routine starts well before dawn; he typically rises at 2 a.m. to begin his 4 a.m. ride, arriving at the café well ahead of his shift, which often doesn’t begin until 8 a.m. This dedication speaks volumes about his character. “He’s never been the type to complain about his struggles,” noted Marissa Schroeder, the café’s marketing manager. “He just gets in, works hard, and goes home.”
However, Rust’s journey has not been without its challenges. Relying on a non-electric bike, he often faced mechanical issues that turned his daily commute into a perilous undertaking. He would occasionally endure dangerous rides lasting 45 to 60 minutes, sometimes even walking to work when his bike broke down. “Other days, there were visible injuries, you know, cuts, bruises,” Schroeder recounted, highlighting the serious risks Rust faced as he navigated traffic on a bicycle.
Recognizing the physical and emotional toll this was taking on their co-worker, Rust’s colleagues sprang into action. In a heartfelt initiative, they organized a fundraiser to purchase him a new e-bike. Remarkably, they raised $765 in just a day and a half—an impressive testament to their unity and support for one another. The surprise reveal occurred in the middle of one of Rust’s shifts, leaving him utterly speechless. “We love you and we want you to be safe,” Schroeder told him, encapsulating the essence of their gesture.
The introduction of the e-bike will drastically reduce Rust’s commute to a mere 15 to 20 minutes, allowing him to catch a few more precious hours of sleep. “I don’t have to get up to work at two in the morning anymore,” he expressed, relief evident in his words. This new chapter in his commuting saga not only enhances his safety but also underscores a valuable lesson about the power of community.
In an era where workplace appreciation can often feel superficial or even lacking—illustrated starkly by the story of Kevin Ford, a Burger King employee who received only a meager gift after 27 years of service—Rust’s experience at Josiah’s Coffeehouse stands out as a beacon of genuine care. Ford’s daughter launched a GoFundMe that subsequently raised over $466,000 to help him realize his dream of opening a food truck, but the stark contrast between the two employees’ experiences highlights a fundamental truth: that recognition and support from coworkers can profoundly impact an individual’s life.
Schroeder poignantly summarized the essence of their act when she said, “Hopefully, now he understands that we’re family, which means that families help out each other when we have our problems.” This sentiment resonates beyond the walls of Josiah’s Coffeehouse; it reminds us all of the importance of looking out for one another, especially in our workplaces where relationships can often become transactional.
In a world that sometimes feels divided, Alex Rust’s story is a warm reminder that kindness, solidarity, and genuine support can prevail. It’s a narrative that not only enriches our understanding of community but also inspires us to foster a workplace culture that values and uplifts each member, ensuring that everyone feels safe, appreciated, and, above all, part of a family.