KarunaNews Story

Eighteen-year-old Reed Marcum turned a summer Saturday into a day of giving by distributing 6,000 book bags filled with school supplies. Over the past nine years, his Back-to-School Book Bag Giveaway has provided over 33,000 backpacks and $1.3 million in supplies to students across Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas. "We have been distributing book bags and school supplies for nine years now, and each time it is so fulfilling," says Reed, a sophomore at Oklahoma State University. Inspired by his involvement in the 4-H youth organization, Reed's projects have collectively raised more than $3.5 million and earned him the prestigious 4-H Youth in Action Award. Reed's dedication doesn't stop there; he also organizes an annual 4-H Toy Giveaway, distributing over 10,000 toys last year alone. Reed's mentor, Greg Owen, proudly states, "Reed's commitment to his community is inspiring." Hail this teen hero and let his story spark your own acts of kindness!