Contact:
Fred Whiting
Points of Light Foundation
(202) 729-8177
fwhiting@pointsoflight.org

Grants Awarded for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 7, 2006) – Thirty-six communities in 23 states have funding to support Martin Luther King Day, Jr. projects on January 15, 2007, thanks to grants provided by the Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C.

“Through the generosity and support of the Corporation for National and Community Service, we have provided funds to community organizations across the country to host 36 MLK Day service projects,” says Robert Goodwin, President & CEO of the Foundation. “Successful projects are incorporating meeting community needs and the needs of disadvantaged youth, providing quality volunteer experiences to foster long-term commitments to service and an emphasis on disaster preparedness.”

Goodwin cites several examples of projects that are taking place around the country:

Chicago, Ill.: Chicago Public Schools Service-Learning Initiative – Volunteers will begin with a Celebration of Service Rally at Chicago's Union Station. Students will then travel to more than 60 work sites throughout the city to volunteer with seniors and people with disabilities. Students will also learn about Dr. King's organizational work and his organizing strategies for the civil rights movement.

Cleveland, Miss.: Delta State University – The Cleveland community will celebrate Dr. King's life and teachings through service by bringing together individuals of all ages. On January 15, 2007, students from elementary grades through college will work with DSU art students to transform the cafeteria at a local school into a visually inspiring, educational learning center.

Macon, Ga.: Volunteer Macon, Inc. – Volunteer Macon's MLK Day of Service will focus on training youth in emergency preparedness and the needs of the elderly. After training, youth will complete a community service project creating emergency kits for the elderly. The event will culminate with a celebration and reflection on Dr. King's life and work.

“Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is not only a day to give back to the community and help our neighbors,” says Goodwin; “it is also a time to reflect on the significant ideas and virtues that this great American left as a legacy for us. That's why we commemorate his birthday with a day on, not a day off.”

The Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network engages and mobilizes millions of volunteers who are helping to solve serious social problems in thousands of communities. Through a variety of programs and services, the Foundation encourages people from all walks of life — businesses, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, low-income communities, families, youth, and older adults — to volunteer.

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