Reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of service

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service emphasizes the importance of a cause greater than self. This Martin Luther King, Jr. Day I reflected on his words as I live and experience this service year. Giving back to our students here on the Eastside of Detroit resonates with Martin Luther King, Jr.’s belief that everyone is capable of serving others.

Being raised just 11 minutes down the street from the same school I currently serve in, the Eastside of Detroit holds a dear part in my heart, and Osborn has become a second home. A part of our mission is to create a balanced environment for our students that they are often missing at home. Every morning we begin serving both our Osborn community of staff and students by getting them up in the morning. Playing only some of the best music and greeting our faculty and students with excitement and conversation. Their smiles and responses remind us, even though we wake up early, we rise with purpose and appreciation for those around us.

Our students also remind us of a cause greater than ourselves by teaching us various ways of selflessness. They share with each other, they embrace each other with warm regards, and they remind us to always laugh at least once a day. I am unaware if they know of their influence on us as City Year AmeriCorps members, but they are truly the best part of our service.

Extending our service beyond Osborn High School, our Osborn team and along with other City Year Detroit AmeriCorps members and staff came together to contribute our service hours to a cause known as “Arts and Scraps,” located in Detroit’s Eastside, which dedicates reusable resources to their school community. Our team diligently worked together for a successful final product; a clean office space and less clutter from disorganization.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service reminds us of mentorship and leading while contributing to others’ success. As we contribute to each other we can grow and see a more united nation. As we continue to give back to others and focus on the big picture for our community, we are reminded of Martin Luther King, Jr. and all his efforts for people everywhere.