Why Serve?

Why do we do service projects on Martin Luther King Jr. Day? What does that have to do with a Civil Rights Movement Leader?

Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated much of his life to service, and as we celebrate him and his actions, it makes sense to follow his lead and make our community a better place.

In the span of 11 years (1957-1968), MLK spoke over 2,500 times and traveled more than 6 million miles. Everywhere he went, he spoke against injustice and encouraged action against it. He led the peaceful march in Washington, D.C. of 250,000 people. Those people were the ones who heard the empowering speech “I Have a Dream.” He grabbed the attention of the world when he advocated for African American rights. He did this through peaceful protests, conferring with President John F. Kennedy, and publishing articles and books. In spite of being arrested more than 20 times and being assaulted on multiple occasions, he continued to be an advocate. He remained humble as many honors came his way, and he was always selfless. When honored as the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize at 35, he gave the $54,123 prize money to the civil rights movement.

He gave the ultimate sacrifice on April 4, 1968 when he was assassinated on his motel balcony.

MLK obviously led a life of service. He once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”

Throughout the country, people answer this question by following MLK’s example and serving their community. It is a part of United We Serve, the President’s national call to service initiative.

As Campbell provides the opportunities for service, will you take the initiative and make a difference? Follow in King’s steps. It may be small, but it is needed to make our world better.

Take advantage of these service opportunities:

Tuesday, January 22: Nature Clean, McLamb ENVS Center, 8am (1-2 hour time commitment)
Tuesday, January 22: MLK, Jr. Biography Trivia at Brookfield Assisted Living, 2pm-3pm (Please indicate whether transportation is needed)

Wednesday, January 23: GIVE LIFE!!! Organ Donor Registration in the Academic Circle.  Register students, 10am-2pm (1 hour service increments)=
Wednesday, January 23: Nature Clean, McLamb ENVS Center, 2pm (1-2 hour time commitment)

Thursday, January 24: Nature Clean, McLamb ENVS Center, 8am &/or 2pm (1-2 hour time commitment)

Friday, January 25: CARDS FOR TROOPS, Wallace Student Center, 9am-2pm (30 minutes-1 hour time commitment during these hours)
Friday, January 25: Nature Clean, McLamb ENVS Center, 11am (1-2 hour time commitment)

Written by: Marisa Linton