GIVING BACK IN HONOR OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a pioneer at the forefront of the Civil Rights movement. He inspired millions, changed lives, and impacted communities around the world. To this day we can still feel the remnants of his legacy.
While Dr. King spoke on many important topics and issues, a common theme across all of his renowned speeches was the importance of community service. As we approach Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day – a National Day of Service – we are reminded how crucial it is to support the causes and charities in and around the communities in which we reside.
Want to participate in this year’s National Day of Service but not sure where to begin? We’ve got you covered with a few suggestions that are sure to help you meet your philanthropic goals this year, while properly honoring Dr. King today.
Donate to a Food Bank
One of the easiest ways to give back is by donating to a local food bank. Feeding America, a nationwide charity working to end hunger, partners with food banks, food pantries, and local food programs to help combat the growing hunger problem that nearly 34 million people face today.
Feeding America makes it easy to find a food program near you and they provide several donation options to choose from. Whether you choose a one-time monetary donation or volunteer your time at a local bank it’s a great way to support those in need.
Want to find a food bank near you? Click here to learn about the opportunities in your area and feed those in need while feeding your soul.
Be a Big Brother or Big Sister
There’s truly no greater reward than having a positive impact on someone. Joining the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America program gives volunteers an opportunity to connect with children who are in need of additional guidance, encouragement, and support. Through their one-on-one mentoring program, Big Brothers and Big Sisters work with young boys and girls, helping them to build resilience and strengthen their overall well-being.
Ready to start shaping the future of today’s youth? There are several ways you can get involved with this incredible non-profit. Make a donation today that will help fund the program. Reach out to your supervisor or manager about starting a workplace mentoring program. Or perhaps the most fulfilling, become a mentor yourself and see first-hand how important a program like this one is.
Since 1904 this organization has helped children across the country reach their full potential and you have an opportunity to be part of that mission – a mission that Dr. King would be proud to stand behind.
Clean Up Your Community
With the ever-growing litter crisis upon us one of the best ways you can help your community is by organizing a neighborhood clean up day. Grab some of your besties, throw on your plastic gloves, and get to work! You’ll not only be creating a cleaner environment for your neighbors, but those who see your efforts are sure to join in.
But it doesn’t stop there! A community clean-up day is great but it’s important to keep that momentum going all year round. Continue sharing the message around recycling and properly disposing of trash and be the example in your community everyday.
Looking for more ways to be litter-free? The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has some great suggestions and resources to tap into, as well as information regarding the effect that litter has on all of us.
Volunteer at a Homeless Shelter
Homeless shelters are often overcrowded, understaffed, and lacking in everyday necessities. Organizations are constantly seeking volunteers to assist with various tasks. Offering your time, even if it’s once or twice a month, can make all the difference.
Volunteers, whether on their own or with a group, can help by serving lunch or dinner to those seeking shelter, can drop off basic supplies to be distributed, or can help fund the initiative by making a recurring donation.
No matter how you choose to help, offering your services not only provides much needed assistance at that moment but you’re providing hope to those who often feel hopeless.
Random Act of Kindness
Even the smallest act of kindness can make a lasting impression. Sometimes doing something seemingly small, in an effort to brighten someone’s day, is all they need to remind them that everything’s going to be ok.
So as part of, and in honor of MLK Day, be the positive light in someone’s otherwise gloomy day. Hold the door for someone, smile at a person who looks down, offer to carry someone’s groceries to their car, or assist an elderly person across the street. No matter what small act you choose, it not only will fill you with pride knowing you’ve done something selfless but it has the ability to take someone’s day from good to great.
Educate
One of the key ways you can be of service is by educating yourself on the various challenges that communities face and being an advocate for those places. It’s vital that we not only know what’s going on around us but that we understand how we can be a part of making a difference.
At Stile, supporting the communities in which we serve is embedded in our core values. It’s a critical part of our entire ethos and something that is continuously evolving as our company grows. Part of our commitment is to amplify the mission of local charities and organizations that are enhancing the lives of those in their own communities.
In honor of this year’s MLK Day we’ve put together hygiene kits that will be donated to Project Home, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower those suffering from homelessness and poverty and help people reach their full potential as active members of society.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to service as a way to make communities everywhere thrive. We hope today you feel empowered to step out of your comfort zone and do something for the greater good of your community – not just for yourself but for all those that are sure to be inspired by your efforts. We hope you make a habit out of giving back and are reminded of Dr. King’s words, “life’s most persistent and urgent question is ‘what are you doing for others’”.
