Oklahoma Teen Gives Away $1.3 Million In School Supplies To Over 6,000 Kids In Need

Good In Your Soul

For some people, doing good is their life's calling. They become inspired early, see the power of their kindness, and it sparks something within them, something that pushes them to help as many people as possible. One teen in the U.S.A. experienced just that years ago, and has dedicated his time to helping others ever since.

Reed Marcum is an inspiring high-schooler who recently helped over 6,000 kids get ready for the upcoming school year by giving them each a backpack full of supplies.

On The Right Foot

This was the ninth year that Marcum's been hosting this event, which has now distributed over 33,000 backpacks total and $1.3 million in school supplies. While the focus began in Reed's hometown of McAlester in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma, his initiative has also reached other cities in the state as well as towns in Texas and Arkansas.

"I want to help kids get their school year started right," Marcum said, "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."

Helping More And More

This project of his started thanks to his membership in a group known as 4-H, a youth organization that aims to "engage youth to reach their fullest potential to become true leaders."

Every year, 4-H asks its members to do an annual service project, which is where Marcum's school supply drive began. It's only grown since then, so much so that he's been awarded with the 4-H Youth in Action Award for all his hard work. He was awarded a $5,000 scholarship to continue his education and a chance for his story to be featured on a national scale.

Only Growing Stronger

Between the school supplies and the monetary donations to make this project happen, Marcum has raised over $3.5 million over the nine years his drive has been in operation.

"Reed's commitment to his community is inspiring. He has had a huge impact here in McAlester," said Greg Owen, Pittsburg County 4-H Educator. He's also Marcum's mentor in 4-H. “I am so proud to support his service projects and watch him grow.”

This isn't all that Marcum does, though. His generous spirit reaches even further.

His Immeasurable Impact

Starting in 2016, he also began running the annual 4-H Toy Giveaway, a toy drive that helps give presents to children and families in need. During last year's drive, there were cars lined up for miles waiting to donate, and he was able to distribute more than 10,000 to people who needed them.

Marcum's been able to host these events with the help of some other local organizations, namely the Sergeant Miles Tarron Foundation and Hudson Strong. Together, they've made an incredible difference in not just their own community, but in communities across state lines, his kindness transcending far beyond physical boundaries.