Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador Kymberly Yarnell was recently highlighted nationally by the program.
Yarnell, of Rison, has been the 2024-25 youth ambassador in Cleveland, Jefferson, Dallas and Lincoln counties.
“Kymberly’s journey as a Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador tells a story of heart, purpose, and the quiet power of showing up,” according to a news release.
Yarnell received recognition and a $100 gift card in May from the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation for her outstanding efforts in helping operate the local Toys for Tots Literacy Program Book Drive this spring through her role as youth ambassador. Of all the campaigns that ran a Spring Book Drive, she helped hers achieve first place in the nation by collecting 3,216 books by the time of the official cutoff for other youth in need and at-risk youth for ages 0-18.
When her father, Matthew Yarnell, Toys for Tots coordinator in Region 7 of Arkansas, introduced her to the role, she found herself unexpectedly thrust into leadership. Rather than shy away, she chose to embrace it and turn it into a meaningful chapter of her life.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Collaborating with her father, she spent countless hours raising funds outside local Walmart stores, distributing flyers on street corners and volunteering her time to help children and families in need.
“We’d wave at cars, collect donations, and hand out flyers for people to take to their churches,” she said. “It was cold sometimes, but those are some of my favorite memories –just being out there with my brother, knowing it mattered. Giving back to others just felt right.”
One of her proudest moments came during a local festival where she helped collect and distribute nearly 400 books single-handedly, according to the news release.
Yarnell explains how much she enjoys distributing books and especially appreciates the literacy program, as it helps build a strong foundation for children to go on to achieve successful futures.
Yarnell also worked behind the scenes — reaching out to libraries and partnering with the local postal service to collect undelivered books and packages.
“The libraries had too many books, and the post office gave us things they couldn’t return. It was amazing how willing people were to help when you just asked,” she said.
She’s also a firm believer in the importance of young people getting involved.
“If we don’t take care of our elders and our kids, then what kind of youth are we? They were our past — we are the future. Hopefully, we can raise better kids for tomorrow,” Yarnell said.
For anyone considering applying to become a youth ambassador, she has advice.
“Don’t let your doubts consume you. There will be hard times, and some people will ignore you. But I always give 100% to whatever I do. This program has given me the chance to be an example, not just look up to one. And that’s the most rewarding part,” Yarnell said.
As she ages out of the youth ambassador role, Yarnell has no plans to step away from her work with Toys for Tots. She’ll be moving into a new position as an assistant coordinator, continuing to serve her local community alongside her father.
Looking ahead, her hopes are “that we get to keep giving out to more children and more families, because everyone deserves a little more magic in their life.”
The USMCR Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador Program spotlights “children helping children” – those that have gone above and beyond in their communities to help those less fortunate than themselves, while also engaging community members on behalf of Toys for Tots, according to the release. Details: https://pine-bluff-ar.toysfortots.org.
