An 18-year-old Oklahoma boy spent his Saturday spreading school joy by handing out 6,000 book bags full of school materials.
It was Reed’s eleventh annual Back-to-School Book Bag Giveaway, which has delivered over 33,000 backpacks and $1.3 million in school supplies to students and families in his community and elsewhere, including Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas.
Yesterday’s drive-thru event is just one facet of Reed Marcum’s encouraging work to meet the needs of the McAlester community in Pittsburg County.
“I want to help kids get their school year started off right,” said Reed, a rising sophomore at Oklahoma State University. “We have been distributing book bags and school supplies for nine years now and each time it is so fulfilling to know we are playing a small part in getting kids excited about their education.”
His long-standing involvement in 4-H, an American youth organization whose mission is to “encourage youth to reach their full potential and become true leaders,” inspired Reed.
The gift is part of Reed’s yearly 4-H service project, and its accomplishment earned the kid the 4-H Youth in Action Award for his community-centered projects that have raised over $3.5 million in dollars and donated materials.
As a national winner, Marcum received a $5,000 higher education award, as well as opportunities to share his story, build professional skills, and network with famous 4-H alumni.
“Reed’s dedication to his community is inspirational. “He has had a huge impact here in McAlester,” said Greg Owen, a Pittsburg County 4-H educator and Marcum’s mentor. “I am so proud to support his service projects and watch him grow.”
Since 2016, Reed has also hosted an annual 4-H Toy Giveaway. Last year’s toy drive saw automobiles line up for over three miles at the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester, and Marcum distributed more than 10,000 gifts to children and families in need during the holidays.
“I’m grateful to 4-H for the support and opportunity to make a difference in my community.”