Reed Marcum, an 18-year-old 4-H member from Pittsburg County, Oklahoma, and sophomore at Oklahoma State University, organized the 2024 Michael Miller Book Bag Giveaway. This significant annual charity event aligns with the back-to-school season.
Supported by The Sergeant Miles Tarron and Hudson Strong Foundation, the Book Bag Giveaway is part of Marcum’s efforts to meet the needs of the McAlester community. Now in its ninth year, the event has distributed over 33,000 book bags and more than $1.3 million in school supplies to students and families in Oklahoma and neighboring states. This year’s drive-thru event saw the distribution of over 6,000 book bags.
“With the back-to-school season approaching, I want to help kids start the school year on the right foot,” Marcum said. “Distributing book bags and school supplies for nine years has been incredibly rewarding, knowing we are helping to get kids excited about their education. I’m thankful to 4-H for their support and the chance to make a difference in my community.”
The giveaway honored several community members and family, including Hudson Campbell, Kennia Mattioda, Mrs. Donna Curry, Mrs. Leann Yandell, Ms. Becky Weeks, Danny Kelly MPD, and SGT. Miles Tarron.
The Book Bag Giveaway is part of Marcum’s annual 4-H Youth in Action service project. Last year, he received the 2024 4-H Youth in Action Award for his community-focused projects, which have collectively raised over $3.5 million in funds and donated items. Established in 2010, the Youth in Action Awards honor 4-H members who have made significant impacts in their communities. As a national winner, Marcum received a $5,000 scholarship and opportunities to share his story, develop professional skills, and connect with notable 4-H alumni.
“Reed’s dedication to his community is truly inspiring. He has made a tremendous impact in McAlester,” said Greg Owen, Pittsburg County 4-H Educator and Marcum’s mentor. “Supporting his service projects and watching him grow has been a privilege.”
Since 2016, Marcum has also organized an annual 4-H Toy Giveaway. Last year, the toy drive attracted cars lined up for over three miles near the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester, where Marcum distributed over 10,000 toys to children and families in need across Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas for the holidays.