You may remember last month WDBJ7 brought you the exclusive story of a Roanoke auto shop manager who repaired a bullied college student's car for free. WDBJ7's story got Ellen's attention and she invited the two men on her season premiere show which aired Monday.
Ellen's introduction Jordan Addison and Richard Henegar won applause at Radford University and inside Quality Auto Paint and Body in Roanoke.
Richard Henegar watched his appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres show with friends and family.
While Jordan Addison was surrounded by fellow students at Radford University. The segment brought tears to his eyes but also a lot of support.
Earlier this year Jordan's car was vandalized four times. A gay slur was keyed into the side along with the word 'die'. He didn't have the money to fix it.
"My aunt and uncle and I have worked really hard to pay for my vehicle and to keep my expenses going," said Addison.
Through a friend, Richard heard what happened.
He fixed the car and with help from other local businesses, Richard put in a lot of extras: new paint job, new stereo, new wheels, a new security system.
WDBJ7 was the only station there when Richard unveiled the car to Jordan in August. The generous act made headlines around the world. Ellen DeGeneres was so touched by the story she surprised both of them with gifts.
She presented both with a check for $25,000 donated by Cover Girl.
Jordan and Richard kept the gift a secret until the show aired on Monday. They've already made plans for the money.
"The 25 grand is going to go to some much needed shop equipment that will help speed production," said Henegar.
Addison said, "First of all I'm going to send my aunt and uncle on vacation."
The appearance on Ellen was a hit with Richard's friends, family and everyone else.
"I'm extremely proud of him. He's just an amazing person," said Jamie Henegar.
"He's my middle grandson and he's still wonderful," said his grandmother Nancy Henegar.
In Radford, Jordan was thrilled by the response on campus.
"It's more than the money or the car could have meant. Just to know that there are so many people that are supportive," said Addison.
It shows everyone here that one person, one act can make a difference.
