PETA Prime’s 2017 “Sexiest Vegan Over 50” winner, Doug Schmidt, is on a roll. Despite the excitement of his new title, he has remained focused on inspiring others and organized a 10-day vegan challenge for 36 school districts and a community college in his area. As a teacher and a health and wellness coordinator for an upstate New York school district, he didn’t waste any time in influencing people to join his healthy vegan crusade.

And for good reason! After Doug survived a near-fatal heart attack at age 49 and another cardiovascular scare a year later, he decided to take charge of his health by going vegan and dropping oil, processed foods, and sugar from his diet. Three years later and 60 pounds lighter, he was able to stop taking all his medications, which is why he’s so passionate about helping others to protect their health with nutrient-packed vegan foods.

This isn’t the first vegan challenge that Doug has masterminded. Two years ago, he inspired 30 people to take part in a 10-day event, and the following year, he rallied 65 people to participate. This year, 1,254 people joined his “10-Day Jumpstart Your Health Challenge,” which is an enormous achievement. He wanted there to be a personal connection, so he made sure that participants had access to a website and a private Facebook group where they could ask questions, post videos, find culinary advice, share resources, and receive support.

Doug’s powerful story—and physical transformation—has inspired people in his community and beyond to make positive changes that benefit their health, animals, and the environment. After just a few days participating in the challenge, multiple schools asked the Finger Lakes Area School Health Plan, which oversaw the schools that participated, for extra funding to host vegan-cooking classes for the staff members who took part in the event. Other schools and teachers inspired each other by planning meals together and sharing recipes.

Doug’s noble actions prove, yet again, that the sexiest character trait anyone can possess is compassion. Put your compassion into action, and organize your own vegan challenge for family and friends. PETA Prime is here to help—simply order a free copy of PETA’s vegan starter kit today for helpful tips and delicious recipes.