(Statewide) – Today, the nation honors the “drum major for peace” – the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The civil rights leader committed his life to equal treatment for jobs and education using non-violent protests.
Celebrations of King’s life through plays, lectures, and other activities are happening throughout Indiana.
Jody Heaston is the state’s Department of Natural Resources Indiana State Park volunteer coordinator. She suggested another option as an example of giving back to the community.
“On Martin Luther King Day, DNR properties are looking for people to be a volunteer,” said Heaston. “People can come out to our properties today, walk our trails, walk around our lakes, pick up sticks and litter if they would like to. It’s a day on, not a day off.”
Heaston said volunteering is self-directed. She added that people can show up and hit the trails with a broom or shovel to clear away trash or sticks, and clear picnic areas and shelters of snow.
If you’re interested, find the park of your choice on the IDNR website. The Indiana State Parks system manages 24 parks and eight reservoirs.
King believed community service promoted unity, addressed social issues, and uplifted neighborhoods – ways he viewed as avenues to change.
Heaston encouraged families to come out and work as a team on the MLK Jr. Day of service.
“We will find something for individuals, families, groups, civic groups, youth groups, businesses,” said Heaston. “We’ll find something for you to do.”
Park staff accept volunteers during park hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. throughout the year.
The DNR says volunteer efforts are most productive during daylight hours, which are ideal for taking scenic photos for social media.
And if cold temperatures are stopping you, Heaston said sign up now to donate time when the weather warms up.
(Story by our newsgathering partners at Indiana News Service)
