Today we mark the 27th anniversary of the national day of service. The day was set up to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King and encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities.

Martin Luther King day began in 1986 as a day to recognize the man. Dr. King was a husband, father, friend, and fierce advocate for the betterment of all people. You can read more of his life here: https://nationaltoday.com/martin-luther-king-jr-day/

Dr. King advocated for nonviolent resistance to overcome injustice. He organized sit-ins, marches, and peaceful demonstrations that highlighted issues of inequality. Through his nonviolent activism during the civil rights movement, he changed things for others. His actions earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.

In 1994, Congress changed the designation to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service – “A Day On, Not a Day Off.”

SOURCE: DoDEA

Dr. King believed life’s most persistent and urgent question was

“What are you doing for others?”

This day offers an opportunity to reflect on the past, think about the present, plan for the future, and remind us of what is truly important. A day to make a commitment to engage with your community and honor the legacy of Dr. King.

Whatever you choose to do today, think about my favorite Dr. King quote:

“Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”