Thursday, January 14, 2010

Utah Commission on Volunteers Encourages Utahns to get involved in the Martin Luther King Day of Service

SALT LAKE CITY- On January 18, people of all ages and backgrounds will come together to improve lives, bridge social barriers, and move our nation closer to the “Beloved Community” that Dr. King envisioned. Dr. Martin Luther King devoted his life’s work to causes of equality and social justice. He taught that through nonviolence and service to one another, problems such as hunger and homelessness, prejudice and discrimination can be overcome. Dr. King’s teachings can continue to guide us in addressing our nation’s most pressing needs—poverty, economic insecurity, job loss and education.
Civic-minded Utahns from around the state will join with volunteers across the nation on the 2010 King Day of Service and make a real in difference their communities. There is still time to get involved.
“January 18, is rapidly approaching and we are asking you to get involved and take up Dr. King’s call to action,” said Shar Lewis, Utah Commission on Volunteers executive director. “For those Utahns who want to help out their fellow citizens–especially during the King Day of Service, there are many organized projects taking place around the state. I encourage you to find one and get involved. The difference you make can be life changing for someone else.”
Some local projects include:
  • Community Services Council/Utah Food Bank
  • Youth Volunteer Corps of Washington County – Aluminum Can Drive
  • Grand County Food Drive
 
For other service events in your area visit the Commission’s websitewww.volunteers.utah.gov or www.nationalservice.gov. These website will connect you to organizations with volunteer opportunities in your area that will be meaningful to you and to those in need.
The mission of the Utah Commission on Volunteers, an office of the Lieutenant Governor, is to improve communities through service and volunteering. For more information on the Commission on Volunteers, and various volunteering opportunities across the state, log onto www.volunteers.utah.gov.