Coolie Myrick’s Back to School event a success

“I’m very passionate about it, and I come from humble beginnings,” Myrick said.

He said he start holding the drive in order to give back, and his beginnings led him to starting this event.

Myrick said the holds the event at Pitts Street Park because that the area he’s from.

He said he hopes that this event will soon become a community-wide event that includes a variety of activities and  health checks, as well.

Myrick said event also includes announcing numerous honors, some of which include the Valerie Marshall Humanitarian Award, the Ricky Kendrick Volunteer Award, and the Kiffany Avery Sponsorship Award.

He event also includes a moment of silence honoring former McDuffie Progress reporter Linda Green.

“She was very supportive of the drive,” Myrick said.

Myrick thanked those around him who have helped make the drive what it is today. It would not be possible without that support, he said.

Although attendance started out slower than usual this year, Myrick said overall turnout was good, with many showing up a little later in the day than usual.

 “We ended up giving out 500 bags and I gave out an additional 70 bags after the drive while cleaning up,” Myrick said.