Milton Hershey’s Legacy Inspires Modern Entrepreneur Jason Wolfe

Milton Hershey’s life story, marked by determination and philanthropy, continues to influence new generations. Born in 1857 in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, Hershey faced numerous challenges, including dropping out of school at age 12. Yet, instead of allowing these setbacks to define him, he persevered, ultimately creating a candy empire that transformed the industry.

Hershey began his career as an apprentice to a printer and later to a confectioner. After launching his first candy business and facing failures in both Philadelphia and New York City, he returned to Lancaster. It was there that he founded the Lancaster Caramel Company, which eventually led him to establish the Hershey Chocolate Company in response to the growing demand for chocolate. By 1900, Hershey sold his caramel business for $1 million to focus solely on chocolate production.

Hershey’s vision extended beyond business. He created a town that would later be known as Hershey, designed to support his employees with schools, parks, and housing. In 1898, he married Catherine Sweeney, but the couple was unable to have children. This prompted them to use their wealth to establish a school for orphaned boys, leading to the founding of the Hershey Industrial School, now known as the Milton Hershey School, in 1909.

The Milton Hershey School has since evolved significantly, serving over 1,800 students today compared to just ten when it opened. The school provides education, housing, food, and medical care to children in financial and social need, all at no cost to their families. The Milton Hershey Trust, established by Hershey in 1909 and significantly funded in 1918 when Hershey transferred the majority of his assets, has grown to a value exceeding $7 billion.

One of the school’s many success stories is Jason Wolfe, an alumnus who entered the Hershey Home at age 10 after his mother could no longer care for him and his brothers. Wolfe credits the structured environment of the school for teaching him discipline and providing a solid foundation for his future. He graduated in 1987 and later attended Bloomsburg University, but his path to success was not without obstacles.

In his 20s, Wolfe faced a severe accident that required spinal fusion surgery. During his recovery, he self-taught computer programming, which led him to create one of the first online coupon sites in 1995, when the Internet was just emerging into the commercial world. This venture eventually became Giftcards.com, now generating over $110 million in annual sales.

Echoing Milton Hershey’s spirit of giving back, Wolfe actively engages in charitable work, including mission efforts in Haiti. Reflecting on his journey, he notes, “Probably, subconsciously it was inside me that I wanted to walk in his footsteps,” highlighting the lasting impact of Hershey’s legacy.

The stories of Milton Hershey and Jason Wolfe illustrate a powerful narrative of resilience and altruism. Both men faced significant challenges yet chose to channel their experiences into creating opportunities for others. As we enjoy a Hershey chocolate bar or select a gift card, we are reminded of their enduring legacy and the lives they have touched.