Community Engagement in Action: MLK Day of Service

Engagement in Action: MLK Day of Service

Sam Houston State University was recently recognized once again by the Carnegie Foundation for its commitment to community engagement, shining a light on the ways in which the university works with and for the community.

SHSU’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is one of the ways Bearkats make a lasting impact on the city they call home. Organized by the Division of Student Affairs and Academic Affairs, students, faculty and staff serve as volunteers at a range of sites, including the Boys & Girls Club of Walker County, Good Shepherd Mission, Huntsville Public Library and other local entities.

The impact of the event on all involved is palpable, with volunteers leaving the experience inspired to help others in more ways than before and local leaders marveling at the work that was done.

“Here in Huntsville — the library, Good Shepherd Mission, SAAFE House — we all work on limited funds and rely on volunteers for our programs throughout the year,” said Lance, library director at Huntsville Public Library. “This project here [MLK Day of Service] is tremendous for us. Fifteen-18 people knocked out in a day what would take us several weeks to do."

Sophomore victim studies student Mayara Lumbi learned of the chance to serve her community through her involvement on the Campus Activities Board. On the day of the event, she oversaw operations at Good Shepherd Mission. To Lumbi, getting the chance to lend a hand to those in need means much more than simply checking off volunteer hours; it’s a chance to be part of something greater.

“The reason why I chose to participate in MLK Day of Service is because I know Martin Luther King Jr. represented giving back and being together as a community. This is the perfect example of doing that while honoring his legacy,” Lumbi said.

A legacy of service is a common bond between SHSU and Martin Luther King Jr., a bond forged through the alignment of ideals and perpetuated by those who seek to live out the university’s motto.

“The measure of a Life is its Service."