2021 Spirit of Philanthropy Individual Philanthropist Award Reed Byers
By Maggie Hatfield
When Reed Byers reflects on growing up in Parkersburg , WV , he remembers the experience was unique , and he is proud to be where he is today as an agent of change for the Mountain State .
“ Through experiences that were adverse , I gained insight into a difficult world that has well equipped me to help individuals in similar situations . It was rough and challenging , but I would not change it , for it has made me who I am ,” he says .
Today , Byers serves as a race director and peer recovery coach . By definition , a peer recovery coach must have lived experience in mental health and addiction , and Byers is thankful to see the other side of that dark time .
“ Thankfully , I have been blessed to find my purpose : service to others ,” he says . “ I think it ’ s important for people to understand that our past does not have to define us or limit our ability to achieve great things .”
Through GiveMore Connections , Byers promotes a healthy lifestyle and offers peer mentorship through the How to Save a Life program . David King , retired executive director of the Ohio-West Virginia Youth Leadership Association , believes the Spirit of Philanthropy Individual Philanthropist Award reflects what Byers has been working toward over the years .
“ Byers ’ journey seeking his calling reveals there is redemption when mind and spirit open to God ’ s purpose ,” says King . “ Byers sees the possibilities with communities working to become their healthiest while helping everyone become their best self . Since I met him 12 years ago , he has been working to achieve his calling by connecting others to build better futures for all .”
For the past year , Byers has been giving back to Friendship Kitchen . This organization ensures free meals are served to the community three days a week .
“ I have had the pleasure of greeting our customers , making sure they get the meals they need and often assisting them to their vehicles ,” he says . “ The ministry serves hundreds of meals a day , and it ’ s such a beautiful way to connect with people .”
Byers is also involved in the Healthy Kids Running Series , a charity organization and national running program whose aim is to provide youth ages 2-18 an inclusive introduction to running while teaching them to empower one another and lead an active and healthy lifestyle .
“ I had the honor of bringing West Virginia its first series this past spring , and it was amazing . We had an outpouring of support from local businesses , community foundations , the fitness community , schools , churches and so many families ,” he says . “ The event led more than 130 youth to the sport of running , and we are looking forward to returning in the fall .”
Byers is motivated to give back to his community by Matthew 10:8 : “ Freely you have received , freely give .”
“ I have been given so much — support , encouragement , resources , blessings and a second chance ,” he says . “ The impact these things have had on me inspire me to believe that , whether it ’ s congratulations , opportunity , a listening ear , love or hope for a brighter tomorrow , giving is the most valuable thing I can do .”
With the support of those around him , Byers has been fueled to make a change for the Mountain State , which is why it will always be home .
“ As a young person , I have had an astonishing amount of support from the community for the works I ’ ve started and realize that , because of my roots here , I am well equipped to make a positive , lasting impact ,” he says .
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