Nearly 300 individuals gathered at the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in East Hills on January 15, 2024, for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. This event aimed to honor the legacy of Dr. King through community service, emphasizing the importance of equality and solidarity.
Michael Schlank, the executive director of the center, highlighted the dedication of the volunteers. “Many of these folks could be on vacation. They could be home watching television. They could be hanging out. It’s cold, it’s icy. But they’ve chosen to come here and help,” he stated. This commitment reflects a broader intention to support those in need, especially in a time when food insecurity remains a pressing issue.
Volunteers engaged in various hands-on projects, including food and supply collections and meal packing initiatives. The event also featured a blood drive and a nationwide postcard-writing campaign aimed at supporting hunger relief efforts. Organizers noted that such activities are crucial as the number of individuals facing food insecurity continues to rise.
“It’s really special. It’s an important part of my family tradition of giving back,” shared volunteer Rebecca Levy. Her sentiment echoes the values that Dr. King championed, reinforcing the idea that collective action can uplift communities.
Schlank further emphasized the urgency of the cause, stating, “People are struggling. Sometimes people are struggling, and you might not know that, but we have 365 days a year here with the opportunity to help folks, and this is a day in which we’re really focusing on ensuring that every person gets lifted up.” This statement highlights the ongoing need for community support and engagement throughout the year.
The MLK Day of Service not only aims to provide immediate assistance but also seeks to inspire long-term volunteerism. As communities come together to remember Dr. King’s legacy, events like this serve as a reminder of the continued work needed to promote equality and justice for all individuals.