Today commemorates a national figure and influential civil rights activist in Martin Luther King Jr. In addition to taking time to reflect on our nation’s history and social movements, this day has become a nationally recognized day of service. With today being a day off for many SUNY students, there are opportunities to take part in annual projects and celebrations on many SUNY campuses and in communities all over New York State, engaging volunteers of all ages in one-time or ongoing projects focusing on everything from disaster relief to child and elder care.
This year SUNY is kicking off a partnership with the Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Office of General Services, and New York State Commission on National and Community Service to co-host over 80 volunteer events and projects across the state. These volunteer opportunities are open to all students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees across New York, and are organized by region to ensure that members of the SUNY family can volunteer whether they are on-campus or at home today, and thousands are expected to participate.
If you are interested in any of the projects but unable to participate today, please note the contact person on your campus, or the website of your regional volunteer center. New Yorkers Volunteer, the State Commission, supports 10 regional volunteer centers whose volunteer opportunities are continuously updated and include a range of interest areas and settings.
Are you in the volunteering spirit, but can’t get out of your house?
Good news! SUNY also co-hosts New York’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day observance, from 10am-11:30am, which is broadcast on cable television across the state. This year’s Observance, Remember! Celebrate! Act!, will feature SUNY Brockport’s Sankofa African Dance and Drum Ensemble. Learn more at www.nyking.org.
Engaging in service with friends, family, classmates and colleagues on a national day of service can introduce you to new organizations or activities, and maybe even get you involved in a cause that you will continue to work in for years to come!
Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!
