How did MLK Day of Service begin? MLK Day began in 1986 to honor his birthday, but Congress changed the focus in 1993 to honor his belief that is best summed up in one of his famous quotes… “Life’s most persistent and urgent questions is, What are you doing for others?”
MLK Day of Service calls for… for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King's vision of a "Beloved Community."
Beck’s Day of Service Day One: “Not everyone gets a day off” Short video clips or pictures of Holocaust, Darfur, Little Rock Nine, UNICEF, internment camps, Philadelphia, Camden, etc. Discuss what lives are like for these people and compare to your own life. Reflect and extend “do these people get a day off?
Beck’s Day of Service Day Two: United States call to action Reading about President Hoover’s call to action through Victory Gardens and importance of youth involvement. He said the future of the US depends on our youth. Research other presidents and their service projects.
Beck’s Day of Service Day Three: Kids Giving Back Many kids are developing their own charities, such as Alex Lemonade Stand. Have students research kids making a difference in America. Create a public service announcement to inform others
Beck’s Day of Service Day Four: Beck Students Giving Back…Making a Difference for Others Discuss how our time is valuable and the positive impact we can make by interacting with others for a common purpose. Service is about time not just about money. Make a Community Connections…Reflect: how can spending time with others make a difference?