The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holds more than just a Federal holiday. It actually was developed into a day of community service. In honor of Dr. King, thousands of service projects took place across the country on Monday, Jan. 16.
This special day found Grand Rapids through mini-grants from the Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC).
The Michigan Community Service Commission, League Michigan, Michigan Nonprofit Association, Michigan Campus Compact, Sara A. Ballard Volunteerism Fund and Volunteer Centers of Michigan distributed $15,500 for 29 different projects slated for Martin Luther King, Jr. day in order to assist communities in making the greatest impact on the holiday.
"Although small amounts, these funds will support critical components of 29 MLK Day service projects in Michigan," said Kyle Caldwell, President and CEO of Michigan Nonprofit Association. "Now these organizations can afford the necessary supplies and resources to implement projects that will make a difference in their communities."
Two organizations in Grand Rapids received funding. The Heart of West Michigan United Way received $850, the largest amount granted, to engage young volunteers as they renovate a high school library. Also included in the funding was the American Red Cross of West Michigan. They used $850 to teach local families about disaster preparedness and participate in a project for victims of the Haiti earthquake.
The MCSC doesn’t stop there though. It is our state’s agency on volunteerism. In fact, in 2009 the agency facilitated 2.3 million adults for 308 million service hours, which equates into a $64 billion (yes, BILLION) economic impact.
Want to get involved in volunteerism? The MCSC has the low-down in helping you be do-gooder. Here’s how to get involved:
• Learn
more about the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
Source: Kyle Caldwell, Michigan Nonprofit Association
Writer: Jennifer Wilson, Do Good Editor
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