A local graduate and sneaker lover, Matt Reed is doing something great for his community. He started the KICKS program to help kids at DuBois Middle School. Recently, he gave out over 120 pairs of brand-new sneakers to students. These shoes are not just cool; they are comfy and make the kids feel good.
The idea for KICKS came from a touching story. DuBois Superintendent Wendy Benton told Matt about a young girl who showed up at school with duct tape holding her shoes together. This moved Matt. He realized he had to do something to help. “I thought, I have to do something with sneakers for the DuBois School District,” he said. He loves shoes, and this was the perfect way to give back.
Every year, Matt visits his hometown to bring new sneakers to students who need them most. This local graduate not only hands out shoes but also encourages the kids and inspires the community with his kind actions.
Matt’s work goes beyond just giving shoes. Superintendent Benton mentioned how much it helps the kids. “We see a tremendous change in the kids—from their energy to their positivity. It makes a huge difference knowing that someone cares about you.” The new shoes help boost their confidence and remind them that their community is there for them.
For Matt, KICKS is more than just sharing his love for sneakers. It’s about spreading kindness and making a positive impact. “What I take away from this is knowing we’re doing the best we can for our community,” he said. “It’s about mixing my passion with real work in the district.”
The KICKS program shows how one person can make a real difference. By taking a simple idea and turning it into something meaningful, Matt Reed is spreading hope and positivity in his community.
