Sen. Williams with Penrose Elementary event coordinator Robert Carrozza, children, and staff of Penrose Elementary School. The students participated in the creation of art projects that connect with the dream of Dr. King, as well as a dance lesson, yoga class, and line dance lesson. They also worked together to create a mural called the “wall of hands.”
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 23, 2013 — Men, women and children of all ages across the Philadelphia region honored the legacy of one of America’s greatest leaders, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the 18th annual King Day of Service on Jan. 21.
Honoring the evolution of this federal holiday into a day of volunteerism and service, state Sen. Anthony H. Williams attended several local events and co-sponsored a winter clothing drive and a local cleanup.
“It’s inspiring to see our region pitch in at local service projects. There are so many people who want to take an active role in making their community a better place, and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a great opportunity to make a difference,” Williams said. “Dr. King’s message of peace and equality can resonate with everyone, and it was so satisfying to see that his legacy lives on, generations after his tragic passing.”
Williams’ district office and Boys Latin Charter School served as donation sites for a winter clothing drive for the homeless co-hosted by Sacaree Rhodes of the African Daughters of Fine Lineage.
Fifty volunteers and 200 attendees participated in the Jan. 21 clothing giveaway at the Municipal Services Building in Philadelphia. Williams’ office contributed 15 large bags of donated clothes, shoes, and blankets. Every individual who needed an article of clothing was accommodated.
Williams, along with state Rep. Jordan Harris, West Shore Civic Organization and the 48th and Woodland Advisory Council, also participated in a cleanup of the 48th and Woodland Recreation Center in Philadelphia.
About 60 children and adult volunteers cleared 75 bags of trash and leaves from the recreation center and painted two rooms and hallway inside.
Williams also visited various events across his Senatorial district.
“Folks of all ages turned the national holiday into a day of service and a day of action. I hope it inspires people to continue to volunteer throughout the year,” Williams said. “Dr. King demonstrated that one person can make a difference, and if we all work together, we can make our communities cleaner and safer.”