“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
We all know who he was and are familiar with the outcome of his efforts, but do you remember the details? In short, Martin Luther King, Jr. was the spokesman for nonviolent activism in the civil rights movement, which successfully protested racial discrimination in federal and state law. He became the youngest man to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Today he is considered to be one of the most important figures of the 20th century, not only for African-Americans, but for all those seeking freedom, justice, equality and peace. In the months leading to his death, he had turned his attention to fighting poverty.
Martin Luther King Day was initially observed in remembrance of the man, his philosophy and the beliefs for which he stood; however in recent years it has become more. 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.”
A strong tribute to someone who stood up for the betterment of others, many of whom did not have a voice. So what are you or your family going to do?
Monday, January 21, Friday, January 25 or Saturday, January 26
Most of the kids are out of school on Monday, but many adults are working. So what to do? Never fear. The University of South Carolina is participating in MLK days of service today, Friday, January 26 and Saturday, January 27.
Community Options*
Volunteer. Maybe the USC dates don’t work for you or your family. Check out volunteer opportunities listed with United Way of the Midlands.
DIY. Have an elderly neighbor that needs some help with yard work or cleaning? Schedule some time for your family to help them out. Check out these eight ideas for volunteering with (or without) kids or five ways to do good from your kitchen table. Or, start 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 raising $1,500 this year for the Red Cross Heroes Program. If you have kids, include your children in your efforts.
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 (this is the best part)
Coming together as a family to serve is extremely valuable – both to each of you individually and to those you’re helping. But what we think is the best part of participating in the MLK Day of Service is the message, so don’t forget to remember Dr. King and if you’re volunteering with your children, tell them about him, how he operated (nonviolent, compassionate, just) and what he stood for (equality, helping others, solutions for a better community and world for all).
*If you don’t live in the Columbia, SC area we’re sure there are other similar programs available in your area. Call your local United Way, Red Cross, food bank or favorite nonprofit and find out how you can get involved.