NILES — A local couple has been inspired to "Give Big" after going to a taping of The Oprah Winfrey Show. Chad and Tammy Gardner of Niles went to the show for fun, but left with a big idea.

Their inspiration came from hearing about a new primetime show, “Oprah's Big Give.” It encourages contestants to change someone's life in just five days by giving away money.

The show is “about charity which we really believe in. So, we took this idea and thought let's run with it,” said Chad.

Tammy agrees. “We knew we had to come home and make a difference and challenge our community," she said. "We have a small community with a huge heart.”

They decided to help a local family who recently lost their dad. But, they knew they couldn't do it alone.

Chad enlisted the help of his students at Niles Alternative High School. Every student is involved in the project to help the family.

That includes one student who received a helping hand in the past. When Leah Gagliardo’s dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Niles community reached out to her family.

“That’s why I want to give back, because of everything that people have done for me. I want to be able to help them like they’ve helped me,” said Leah.

It’s a life lesson that's coming full-circle as students collect donations for five days just like on the show.

Student Hayley Baker enjoys helping those in need. “It's a great feeling and a lot of people in our community need help and we just don't realize it,” she said.

The students are collecting donations from March 10 to March 14. The final ceremony will take place at Ring Lardner Middle School at 7:30 p.m. where the family will be presented with the donations.

If you would like to help, please send all donations to:

Attn: Chad Gardner
Cedar Lane Alternative High School
2301 Niles-Buchanan Road
Niles, MI 49120

Checks can be made payable to SMCAA.