Martin Luther King Remembered By 'A Day Of Service'
DENVER (CBS4) - Monday is the Martin Luther King holiday, but Saturday the civil rights leader was remembered by a day of service.
Ahead of the big celebration in Denver, volunteers have been prepping for Monday's MLK dinner.
"Every year Volunteers of America hosts a dinner for those who hunger on MLK day to celebrate his legacy through service," Rachel Dolgin with Volunteers Of America said.
Volunteers both young and old did everything from wrapping silverware to decorating placemats. It's their way of giving back to those less fortunate.
"It means coming together as one and being a group that's helping out and making a difference," volunteer Joni Perkins said.
"It's just getting along with everyone of each race, nationality, regardless of whatever their background is," volunteer Robin Cruz said.
This Martin Luther King Day marks the 50th anniversary of his march on Washington. It's also the same day President Barack Obama will be publicly sworn in. He's participating in community service events this weekend and is encouraging everyone to volunteer during this time.
"I was really happy to hear about that. It's a great thing for the whole nation to catch on to. Everyone can do a little bit of volunteering throughout the year, even if it's just something small to make a big difference," Dolgin said.
Saturday's volunteer event even helped educate children about why we celebrate Martin Luther King Day. The feeling they get from giving back and the spirit of equality has them wanting to volunteer again year after year.
"Oh yeah, oh yeah, I definitely would. It's definitely worth it," volunteer Cassandra Perkins said.
The largest Martin Luther King Jr. march and rally in the U.S. is Monday in Denver. The "Marade" kicks off at the Martin Luther King memorial in City Park at 9 a.m. Thousands will march along Colfax Avenue to Civic Center Park. This is the 28th year for the Marade.
