COLORADO SPRINGS — Today local volunteers helped out at nonprofits and showed their support for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day of service and giving back to the community.
Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity was one of the local non-profits that got some extra help. The non-profit works to ensure people have a home to live in or improve their living conditions.
“Martin Luther King was about working with people who need help, lifting the oppressed, and this is a place where justice for housing and housing really matters,” explained Kim Hockman, a volunteer.
Hockman was at the Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity Restore on Monday, volunteering her time to the organization. She was helping out with anything needed around the store, like re-arranging furniture.
“This is one thing we do together because it's an MLK celebration. We're here to work in areas that were important to Martin Luther King,” said Hockman.
Community members also volunteered their time at Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado.
Tiegen and his mom, Catie Cox, joined more than 75 volunteers at the Food Bank Distribution Center in Colorado Springs. They’ve been volunteering on the holiday for several years.
“I started to like it, so we come out here every Martin Luther King Jr. day, and we help with the people who have a little less than us right now,” said Tiegan, 12 years old.
Volunteers sorted and packed thousands of pounds of food. The food is distributed to local food pantries and other organizations in Southern Colorado.
“It’s ust a great time of giving back to the community. We don't always have money to give, but we have our time to give,” said Katie.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is the only holiday designated as a national day of service.
Dr. King was passionate about fighting for systemic change and bettering his community. He shared his vision’ of what he called, ‘the beloved community,’ which includes diversity in a community. Habitat for Humanity has since launched ‘The Beloved Community’ Campaign, which lasts until Feb 5.
Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity is hosting a series of initiatives to give back this month for the campaign.
Find more information here.
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