Deli Owner’s ‘Grades for Grabs’ Honors Kids' Academic Effort.

In 2023, deli co-owner/manager Wail Alselwi challenged a local 12-year-old boy, Zameir Davis, to achieve an 90 percent average in school. If he succeeded, Zameir could choose anything he wanted in the store. At the end of the semester, Zameir proudly returned to the store with his report card in hand: Not only did he earn a 90 percent average, but he had also made the honor roll. 

The store security camera captured the proud moment, which Wail then posted on social media to motivate other students. To his shock, the post went viral with millions of views. The unexpected reaction inspired Wail to expand the concept to other students within his community. 

In an effort to encourage effort and improvement, and not simply reward those with the highest grade point averages, Wail designed tiers to the program. Students can either earn rewards by achieving high grades during a semester or by showing significant improvement from the previous one. 

A student who can prove a 90 percent or higher average earns $100 cash plus snacks and a T-shirt. Achievement in the 70 to 80 percent range average earns students up to $10 in store rewards. Students who show improvement, or earn "Student of the Month" or "Perfect Attendance" honors, also get a chance to earn cash or goodies at the store. 

Wail first started the program with his own money. To keep it going, he launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised more than $600,000 as of October 2026. In addition to supporting "Grades for Grabs," the generous donor funds have enabled Wail donate school supplies to thousands of students. He now hopes to expand his inspiring program nationwide.

Wail said he wants kids to feel recognized for their hard work, and he wants them to know that others are proud of their achievements. 

"Many kids lack encouragement and, sometimes, all it takes is a small incentive to boost their confidence and push them toward greatness," said Wail. "Imagine a student working extra hard to improve their grades, knowing their effort will be recognized and celebrated. That’s the impact we’re making."

Excited students from all five New York boroughs run to Wail's deli at the end of every semester, eager to show him their good grades. Some kids opt to spin a wheel of chance to determine their reward. 

The Foundation for a Better Life and PassItOn believe that Wail Alselwi is a hero for encouraging the youth in his community to strive for academic success. His program recognizes improvement and effort as well as celebrating high grades. Wail's action is a great example of encouragement. He has taken a positive concept, rooted in the desire to uplift youth, and turned it into a growing movement. His idea is now inspiring thousands of young students to value educational achievement.

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/cf6VbfWofz0?si=xpHKxXV9OP20EPbt