12-Year-Old Philanthropist Nominated for National Award

The small town of Greybull holds a hidden treasure – a twelve-year-old philanthropist who has a heart for those in need.

12-year-old Jack Pharaoh is being considered as a recipient of the Jefferson Award – a national award that recognizes and honors community volunteers. Jack is the founder of a charity movement called “Jack’s Box,” which provides food, toiletries and other necessities free of charge, and mostly anonymously.

Jack began his philanthropic crusade several years ago, while on a trip to Salt Lake City to address some health concerns for his mom, Misty. Jack says that when he saw homeless people in the urban area, he just had to do something.

His mom, Misty, says Jack was just nine years old when he came up with the idea – why not put a box outside his house where anyone who needs something to eat can get it – no questions asked?

Now Jack’s simple box has multiplied. He has a box in Worland, and through GoFundMe events and local sponsorships, he has added a food drive at Thanksgiving and gifts for local children at Christmas.

Jack is one of four nominees for the Jefferson Awards from Wyoming. They will be honored at a presentation next month in Casper.