The annual 4-H Toy Giveaway, organized by 19-year-old 4-H’er, Reed Marcum, Pittsburg County, Okla., distributed more than 15,000 toys to children and families in need across Oklahoma, Texas and Arkansas, in its largest giveaway yet. 

Marcum and his team of over 100 volunteers distributed toys, clothing and other essentials to families in a line of vehicles stretching more than three miles near the Southeast Expo Center in McAlester.  

Reed Marcum and volunteer Samantha White grab a bicycle bring bike to child during this year’s 4-H Holiday Toy Giveaway. (Kurtis Hair, SUNUP)

Marcum launched the annual toy giveaway through Oklahoma 4-H in 2016 – when he was just 11 years old – with a small walk-up event and 1,000 donated toys. Since then, he has worked with his hometown community of McAlester to spread holiday cheer and give away more than 64,000 toys. 

“It means so much to make a difference for families going through hard times and see the smiles on kids’ faces when they get the toy they’ve been wishing for all year,” said Marcum. “Our annual toy drive has grown over the years into something that brings people together to support one another and celebrate this season of giving. It all started because 4-H believed in my potential and helped ensure I was beyond ready to tackle the challenges I saw in my community.”

Marcum’s community service projects have raised more than $3.5 million in funds and donated items. His first 4-H service project – the 4-H Book Bag Giveaway – has distributed more than 30,000 book bags to kids of all ages. After a community member lost his life to pediatric cancer, Marcum started the Hudson Strong Foundation, a 501c3 organization that raises funds in support of pediatric cancer research and creates opportunities for other children to feel loved, develop self-confidence, and reach their full potential.  

Related:Mark Nemec: From swimming barditches to scouting crops

Reed Marcum, his mom Angie Miller, and volunteers Miles Rolan and McKenzie Freels pause for a photo before setting up for this year’s 4-H Holiday Toy Giveaway. (Kurtis Hair, SUNUP)

In 2024, Marcum was one of four recipients of the 4-H Youth in Action Awards, a national award that honors 4-H’ers who have used their 4-H experiences to create a lasting impact in their community.  

“For almost a decade, Reed’s dedication, compassion and leadership have been a shining example of how 4-H’ers can transform their communities through service,” said Greg Owen, Pittsburg County 4-H Educator and Marcum’s mentor. “Reed’s journey from a shy fifth grader to the accomplished young man he is today is truly inspiring, and I know he will continue to have an even greater impact on his community in the years to come.”

Marcum is a sophomore at Oklahoma State University studying pre-law with an emphasis in sociology. He plans to bring his public speaking and leadership experience to the courtroom as a criminal defense attorney.

Related:U.S. peanut production up, exports remain strong

Toys lined up and volunteers ready for Reed Marcum’s 4-H Holiday Toy Giveaway at the Expo Center in McAlester, Oklahoma. (Kurtis Hair, SUNUP)

For more information on the 4-H Toy Giveaway, email [email protected]. Or click here to contribute to the annual toy drive fund and Marcum’s other service projects.

Authored by Karen Castillo, 4-H Council