HOLLYWOOD, Md. — The Hollywood–Leonardtown Optimist Club honored St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Deputy First Class Brandon Reynolds on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, recognizing his long-standing commitment to youth mentorship, community outreach and public service across Southern Maryland.
Reynolds received the club’s Friend of Youth Award during the organization’s annual awards ceremony. He was also presented with a Maryland House of Delegates citation and a Maryland Senate citation recognizing his service and impact within the community.
Local and state officials in attendance included State Sen. Jack Bailey, Maryland Del. Matt Morgan, County Commissioner Mike Alderson and Sheriff Steve Hall, all of whom praised Reynolds’ leadership, dedication and service to the community.
Maryland Delegate Matt Morgan shared his appreciation of Reynolds’ dedication following the ceremony. “It was an honor to recognize Officer Brandon Reynolds with the Our Friend of Youth Award on behalf of the St. Mary’s Delegation and the Hollywood Optimist Club. Officer Reynolds is an outstanding School Resource Officer, and his dedication helps ensure the safety of our schools. Congratulations, Brandon,” Morgan wrote.
When Reynolds addressed attendees, he emphasized that the recognition reflected the collective work of his team. He credited fellow deputies and officers for their support and contributions, noting that the award belonged as much to them as to him.
A Record Of Service Rooted In Youth Outreach
A 2013 graduate of Leonardtown High School, Reynolds began his public safety career with 3.5 years in corrections, serving on the Emergency Response Team and achieving the rank of Correctional Officer First Class. He has spent the past four years with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and currently holds the rank of Deputy First Class. He also serves as the School Resource Officer at Spring Ridge Middle School, where he has organized Cops vs. Kids basketball games aimed at strengthening relationships between students and law enforcement.
In addition to his law enforcement duties, Reynolds has volunteered and instructed with Camp D.A.R.E. since 2018, participating in more than 100 conducted Taser demonstrations as part of controlled educational programming for youth.
In addition to Wednesday’s recognition, Reynolds was named a 2025 Hometown Hero by the St. Mary’s County Elks Lodge No. 2092 during a ceremony held Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, further highlighting his influence within law enforcement and the broader community.
Reynolds has remained deeply involved in youth advocacy and volunteer service for nearly a decade. His efforts include volunteering with Foundation4Heroes since 2015 and organizing the St. Mary’s Splash, which raised more than $35,000 for the local Special Olympics program between 2018 and 2019.
He also founded the Community Hoops Program, building basketball hoops in his parents’ garage and personally delivering them to low-income neighborhoods through Foundation4Heroes. Additional initiatives include organizing Cops vs. Kids basketball games at Spring Ridge Middle School and teaching community drug-awareness classes, where parents are encouraged to attend alongside their children.
“I’ve learned so much from my son. At 17, he chose to become Spider-Man for Foundation for Heroes, and by 19 he was already running charitable efforts with the sheriff’s department. He never stopped giving back. From designing playgrounds in underserved neighborhoods to mentoring kids and helping revive the D.A.R.E. program, his heart has always been in service. He’s being honored because of who he is,” Greg Reynolds, his proud father, said.
Throughout his career, Reynolds has received multiple honors, including recognition from the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and community organizations for professional excellence and lifesaving actions.
“Brandon represents exactly the kind of leadership and character we are fortunate to have in our community,” said Timothy Quade, president of the Hollywood–Leonardtown Optimist Club. “His commitment to youth, teamwork and service reflects what the Optimist mission is all about.”
The BayNet congratulates Deputy Brandon Reynolds on his recognition and thanks him for his continued service to the community.
About The Optimist Club
The Hollywood–Leonardtown Optimist Club is part of Optimist International, a national and international civic organization dedicated to supporting youth and strengthening communities. Local initiatives focus on programs benefiting children and families, including school-based efforts, food and clothing drives, and support for nonprofit organizations serving Southern Maryland.
The Hollywood–Leonardtown Optimist Club operates as a local charter of Optimist International, one of 25 Optimist Clubs currently active across Maryland. Community members interested in learning more or getting involved can find the club through Optimist International’s online club directory.
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