Celebrating Martin Luther King Day of Service as a "day on not a day off" has become quite a tradition in the Philadelphia area. Philadelphia leads the nation in the number of volunteers, around 50,000, and has an incredibly organized system for matching volunteers with projects in the area. Yesterday, I spent some time at the Martin Luther King High School which is "ground zero" for the days events. There are a number of organizations handing out literature, running workshops, and completing various projects.
One incredible project at the high school was the construction of a house, that will be sent to Lafayette, LA and a playhouse that will be donated to Stenton Family Manor shelter. Habitat for Humanity and Youthbuild Philadelphia Charter School collaborated to build the house and playhouse. As the day went on many dignitaries came by to lend a hand.
After leaving Martin Luther King High School I met with some parents and students from Abington Friends School to put together packages of items to be delivered to Whosoever Gospel Mission and Rescue Home, Aid for Friends and Face to Face.
One of the goals for the MLK Day of Service is to encourage people to continue their volunteer service throughout the year. So, if you weren't able to participate yesterday you still have time to volunteer with a local organization. Everyone is welcome to participate in next years Day of Service as well. Any individual can register a project and recruit friends and family to participate.
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