A young basketball player from Owensboro, Reagan Durham, has been dedicating her time and skills to both improving her game and giving back to the community. Since second grade, she and her father Clay have committed to making 100 shots daily before school. This practice evolved into a more ambitious goal last summer when she successfully completed 10,000 shots. This year, Reagan aims for 15,000 shots, with each successful shot raising one dollar for three charities: Play Like A Girl, Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Owensboro (Sparky’s), and St. Jude’s.

Reagan's commitment extends beyond her passion for basketball. Her family's love for animals and her involvement in equestrian activities inspire her choice of beneficiaries. She splits her days between playing basketball and caring for animals, emphasizing the importance of supporting girls in sports and aiding sick children. Her parents take pride in her altruistic spirit and believe it is essential for children to learn the value of helping others early on. With nearly 3,000 shots already made this summer, Reagan continues to inspire those around her.

From Practice to Purpose: A Journey Beyond Shots

Reagan Durham’s journey began as a simple routine of shooting hoops before class, transforming into an impactful mission. What started as a personal challenge has grown into a meaningful endeavor to support charitable causes. Her dedication to making 10,000 shots last summer set the stage for this year’s even more ambitious goal of 15,000 shots. Each shot not only enhances her basketball skills but also contributes to vital causes close to her heart.

Her initiative highlights how small actions can lead to significant change. Reagan’s daily target of 200-250 successful shots from distances of 10-15 feet showcases her discipline and perseverance. Her efforts have already raised almost $1,000 for each charity, demonstrating the power of combining personal passions with philanthropy. The chosen charities reflect her diverse interests, especially her love for animals through Sparky’s Animal Rescue. By linking her athletic pursuits with charitable giving, Reagan exemplifies how individual goals can benefit broader communities.

Heartfelt Philanthropy: Balancing Sports and Service

Beyond her basketball achievements, Reagan Durham demonstrates a deep commitment to service. Her selection of charities aligns with her values and experiences. For instance, Sparky’s resonates with her due to her family’s pets and her own passion for animals. Similarly, her advocacy for Play Like A Girl stems from her experience playing on predominantly male teams and her desire to encourage more girls to participate in sports. Supporting St. Jude’s reflects her belief that financial burdens should not hinder medical treatment for children.

Her parents, particularly Clay, express immense pride in Reagan’s ability to balance athletic development with community service. As a school administrator, Clay notes her kindness towards others with additional needs, reinforcing the importance of nurturing empathy in young individuals. Reagan’s story serves as an inspiration, showing how integrating personal interests with altruism can create lasting impacts. Her ongoing progress toward her shooting goal symbolizes her unwavering determination to make a difference, proving that youthful energy can drive meaningful change. Through her efforts, Reagan reminds us all of the potential within every child to contribute positively to society.