Positive difference on special day
January 21, 2008 was a wonderful day across the USA as we celebrated the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Crispus Attucks Association chose to mark this occasion by offering an event focusing on the theme of “A Day On, Not A Day Off.” The purpose was to encourage our youth and neighbors to give back to the community.
Our annual breakfast attracted 525 people who celebrated the spirit of Dr. King. Thank you to our young people who helped to organize this program.
It is my opinion that the program message was a huge success: our young people took a leadership role in volunteering in our community. More than 125 volunteers committed to community service projects that day such as picking up trash in our streets and visiting seniors in nursing homes.
To comment on this letter, click on “Comments” below
I would like to thank Penn State-York, York College, Buffalo Soldiers Cavalry Scouts, and CA YouthBuild, as well as all of the individuals who came out in support of this event.
I want to thank Congressman Todd Platts for actively participating in our day of service. He served breakfast, tore down tables, and even threw out the trash at the end of the event. He invested a great deal of time here and made a huge contribution.
Thank you to Mayor Brenner, who without fanfare or publicity drove our street cleaner through our neighborhoods. Thank you to Representative Eugene DePasquale and many other local politicians who rolled up their sleeves and pitched in to make a positive difference on this special day.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Martin Luther King “Living the Dream” Awards. Congratulations to Dr. Linda Estep, the recipient of the Social Justice Award, for her leadership and vision in the Central York School District. I consider her achievements to be amazing in terms of preparing students, faculty, staff, and parents for the diversity changes in the school district. Wm. Lee Smallwood, former City Councilman, received the Community Service Award for his long-standing involvement in and commitment to our city. Finally, Michael Black received the Leadership Award for his involvement in various boards and committees that help make York a better place.
To all of the 125 volunteers that day, thank you for truly understanding what “a day on, not a day off” really means, and for projecting the true spirit of Martin Luther King Day.
Bobby Simpson
Executive Director
Crispus Attucks Association
Leave a comment