Reco McDaniel McCambry is a hometown boy. Growing up in McDonough he knew what it was to struggle due to historic injustice. He credits this experience, and the wisdom and strength of his single mom, Deborah Ann Watson, with his success today as a successful CEO, Forbes Business Council member, and author of two books.

Last year, the McDonough City Council designated January 19 as Mr. Reco McDaniel McCambry Day. This January, McCambry sponsored a series of events and activities around McDonough designed to celebrate the lives of its residents. At the event, students were invited to express their thoughts and experiences with inner strength.

In the “Color Me Strong” contest held at Tussahaw Elementary School, McCambry invited students to draw or color pictures of the strongest people in their lives. Fourth and fifth grade students were also invited to write a paragraph about what makes their chosen role model so strong. Big smiles were found on every face as the classes with the most participating students were awarded pizza parties, and fourth and fifth grade contest winners received $50 in gift cards.
At McDonough Middle School, students were invited to create original poems or rap lyrics sharing strategies they use to achieve their own goals. The classes with the most participation in this first annual “Start and Finish Strong” contest received pizza parties, and individual writing contest winners received $75 in GameStop gift cards.

As part of the celebration, McCambry also funded the provision of 150 school uniforms for students in need. He announced his new role as a Partner in Education with the school, and as an organizing member of their Dads on Demand organization. Dads on Demand’s mission is to provide father figures and role models to youths in the surrounding community.

A second round of celebrations is planned for July 29 – 31, in honor of the birthday of Reco’s late and great mother. The Deborah Ann Watson Memorial Weekend will include an award ceremony to recognize the unsung heroes of the McDonough community, a basketball tournament and car show at a local park, and a back-to-school event featuring school supply and backpack giveaways and free hair and grooming services to help students look and feel their best.

McDonough residents can follow Reco on Facebook and Instagram at @recomccambry for updates on the Deborah Ann Watson Memorial Weekend.