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Why Serve?
During
his lifetime, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. worked tirelessly toward a
dream of equality. He believed in a nation of freedom and justice for
all, and encouraged all citizens to live up to the purpose and
potential of America by applying the principles of nonviolence to make
this country a better place to live, creating the Beloved Community.
The King Day of Service is a way to transform Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr.'s life and teachings into community service that helps solve
social problems. That service may meet a tangible need, such as fixing
up a school or senior center, or it may meet a need of the spirit, such
as building a sense of community or mutual responsibility. On this day,
Americans of every age and background celebrate Dr. King through
service projects that:
Strengthen Communities
Dr. King recognized the power of
service to strengthen communities and achieve common goals. Through his
words and example, Dr. King challenged individuals to take action and
lift up their neighbors and communities through service.
Empower Individuals
Dr. King believed each
individual possessed the power to lift himself or herself up no matter
what his or her circumstances - rich or poor, black or white, man or
woman. Whether teaching literacy skills, helping an older adult surf
the Web, or helping an individual build the skills they need to acquire
a job, acts of service can help others improve their own lives while
doing so much for those who serve, as well.
Bridge Barriers
In his fight for civil rights, Dr.
King inspired Americans to think beyond themselves, look past
differences, and work toward equality. Serving side by side, community
service bridges barriers between people and teaches us that in the end,
we are more alike than we are different.
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The keynote speaker will be Dr. Lorenzo Shannon a former
army chaplain (ret), a Presbyterian pastor, scholar, community activist, author, and
educator. Among other things, Dr.
Shannon was the first African -American senior pastor of the Pentagon Pulpit
and was the African American graduate of the Command and General Staff
College. Dr. Shannon is also an Eagle
Scout and Boy Scout Ambassador, A member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, a
past president of the Duke University Divinity School Alumni Association, and a
holder of several honorary degrees.