Recreation manager and youth adviser, Matt Reedy’s impact on the youth community in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, is undeniable. He has been recognized many times for his ability to bring different groups together in multi-generational settings. And as the organizer of the annual high school graduation celebration event, he has been able to engage significant private sponsors and community volunteers to ensure a safe, high-quality event for the town’s future adult citizens. The event raises thousands of dollars and insures that every senior leaves the all-night celebration feeling like a winner who has pride in the Oak Ridge community.

This Hero also makes sure that the community’s youth learns about governmental processes through participation and service. By working with local private and nonprofit groups, the Youth Advisory Committee has learned about its capacity to serve and improve Oak Ridge.

Advisory committee member and high school senior, Stella Powell, said, “As a mentor, Matt believes in each board member more than they believe in themselves. I have used him as a reference for job applicants on several occasions and he is always eager to turn the hushed, half-hearted suggestion of a quiet student into action. Truthfully, I have not seen anyone more passionate for his job or optimistic for the future of his town than Matt Reedy, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment I have gotten to work with him.”

"Truthfully, I have not seen anyone more passionate for his job or optimistic for the future of his town than Matt Reedy"