Utter the name “Martin Luther King” and many of us immediately think of his oratory skills and his powerful and inspiring speeches, like during the March on Washington when he spoke of the “fierce urgency of now.”

Also memorably, Dr. King made it clear that he wanted us to channel that urgency toward advancing the common good, saying, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?’”

As we celebrate his life and leadership on the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, United Way of Bartholomew County asks our neighbors to remember not only Dr. King’s words, but also his bravery and belief that each of us must find a way to serve.

When you volunteer through United Way of Bartholomew County, you’re joining hundreds of people who are giving back so others can get ahead and reach their full potential and we couldn’t do it without you.

Your time on MLK Day is critical to the mission to moving our community forward and to ensure that everyone can reach their full potential.

We need your time and talent to accomplish this bold goal.

This MLK Day, you can help Sans Souci sort donations, helping with their mission of job skills training, or you can ensure children admitted into a local hospital have the comfort of a bear to help them through this tough time in their life.

Can we count on you to continue Dr. King’s legacy? Your commitment to service on MLK Day is not just an acknowledgment of the past, but a crucial step towards shaping a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.