At just 7 years old, Leo Prouhet has already figured out something many adults spend a lifetime learning: helping others matters.

The Warrenton second-grader was surprised recently with a Hidden Heroes Award, presented in front of his classmates, teachers and family, in recognition of a selfless fundraiser that turned his unused toys into meaningful support for families in need.

It all started with a simple conversation at home.

As Leo and his mom were cleaning out his room, they noticed just how many toys he no longer played with. With Christmas approaching, the discussion shifted from decluttering to giving back, and soon, an idea was born.

“He had so many toys he didn’t want to keep anymore,” his mother, Amanda Prouhet, said. “We were talking about Christmas time coming up, and we came up with the idea of doing a fundraiser garage sale.”

Rather than simply donating the toys, Leo wanted to make sure they could help as many people as possible. He priced them affordably so families who might not be able to buy new toys could still enjoy them, while also accepting donations.

The October sale raised more than $700.

But Leo’s generosity didn’t stop there.

When the family later discussed the effects of a government shutdown and food insecurity in the community, Leo made another decision, to use part of his earnings to help feed others. About $250 of the funds were used to purchase food, which was donated to Agape, right here in Warrenton.

Most of the remaining money went toward sponsoring a family for Christmas.

Leo personally helped shop for gifts for three young boys, picking out toys, games, clothes and food alongside his mom. He even helped wrap the presents, carefully choosing different wrapping paper and tape so each child’s gifts would feel special.

“We wrapped them together,” his mom said. “He picked out the wrapping papers so that each kid had their own.”

Asked if he enjoyed the experience, Leo simply smiled and said he liked shopping for the games and food, though he admitted he got a little tired after visiting so many stores.

Leo is also an active member of Warrior Ridge’s Kindest Club, which encourages students to look for ways to help others throughout the year. The group organizes projects such as donating Halloween candy to overseas service members and participating in community drives.

“He’s been part of it for a couple of years now,” his mom said. “They talk a lot about how they can help other people.”

That mindset has already made an impact. Leo’s Hidden Heroes nomination came from a local bus driver, and when editors reviewed the submission, his name was immediately recognized thanks to conversations happening at Agape itself.

“People were already talking about him at the Agape,” Warren County Record Editor William Carroll said. “He’s made a real difference.”

During the surprise presentation, Leo was visibly overwhelmed but proud as he accepted the award in front of his classmates. He was also given a signed copy of a children’s book, Gertrude Goes to the Ballpark, by local author Dr. Jeremy Housewright, who praised Leo’s compassion.

“He has such a big heart for such a little guy,” Housewright said.

Looking ahead, Leo and his family are already discussing future plans, possibly another fundraiser in the spring through their church, or additional donations to local food pantries. Whether it’s for Easter, Christmas or another community need, Leo says he’s happy to help however he can.

“He’s got a little bit of money left,” Amanda said. “We are just kind of brainstorming what we can do with it next.”

When asked what inspired him to do it all, Leo shrugged.

“I don’t know,” he said. “It just kind of came to us.”

Sometimes, that’s how heroes are made.