MLK Day of Service
January 17, 2014
By JoAnn Turnquist
President and CEO, Central Carolina Community Foundation
January 17, 2014
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was the spokesman for nonviolent activism in the civil rights movement. Through his efforts, and the efforts of those he inspired, racial discrimination in federal and state law was eliminated. In the months leading to his death, he turned his attention to fighting poverty, lending his name and reputation to the underlying causes of the problem.
Dr. King became the youngest man to win the Nobel Peace Prize and today, he is considered to be one of the most important figures of the 20th century, not only for African-Americans, but also for all those seeking freedom, justice, equality and peace.
Martin Luther King Day was initially observed in remembrance of the man, his philosophy and the beliefs for which he stood. Today it is an opportunity to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service in our communities. The MLK Day of Service “empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions, and moves us closer to his vision of a beloved community.”
The day of service is a strong tribute to a man who stood up for the betterment of others, many of whom did not have a voice. How can you and your family participate?
Community Options
Volunteer. The University of South Carolina and United Way of the Midlands have a number of volunteer opportunities posted on their websites. Read through them with your family, take a vote and roll up your sleeves. If you’re looking for additional inspiration, check out ‘eight ideas for volunteering with your kids’. Ideas for folks without children are also included.
DIY. Do you have an elderly neighbor that needs some help with yard work or cleaning? Schedule some time for your family to help them out. Or, check out five ways to do good from your kitchen table. Tie your healthy new year’s resolution into your project by training together for an upcoming road race benefit that supports homeless families.
Become a Hero. Did you know that it takes $1,500 to support a family of four in the wake of a disaster? This MLK Day, commit as a family to raise $1,500 this year for the Red Cross Heroes Program. Brainstorm fund raising ideas with your children and build a calendar, complete with the ideas and fundraising goals and milestones.
Feed the Hungry. Are you aware that one out of every four children in South Carolina goes to bed hungry every night? Harvest Hope Food Bank, which services 20 counties in central South Carolina, feeds 48,000 people PER WEEK. Host a food drive, volunteer, or donate.
The Message
Coming together as a family to serve is extremely valuable for you and those you’re helping. As you work together, share the story of Dr. King, and the values he stood for — equality, compassion, justice — with your children. This message will resonate long after this special day of service has passed.
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