Service projects come in all shapes and sizes. Some are sponsored by single organizations, while others involve wide-ranging partnerships of charities, communities of faith, government agencies and businesses. Some take place at the most local level—a school or a street—while others are citywide. Some are designed as single-day projects, while others continue long into the future. Some focus specifically on the life and teachings of Dr. King, while others draw on his message to unite people around a common goal. But all programs should strengthen awareness of the King Day of Service and bring more people into service. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Getting Started
For volunteers, community organizations, and others, a one-day service project can be a fantastic and transforming experience—or it can fall well short of that goal. A lot has to do with the way the day is planned. Your job is to make it a positive and meaningful experience for everyone.
Building Partnerships
Service projects can be a great way to spread the word about your organization and to reach out across barriers to attract partners and sponsors. The more broadly you cast your net, the more you will reflect the teachings of Dr. King - and the greater your success will be.
Organizing the Day
Now that you've planned your project, built partnerships, recruited volunteers, and contacted the media, it's time to focus on the nitty-gritty of making sure that the day runs smoothly.
Team Leader Tips
Team leaders can play a critical role in the success of your project. We would define team leaders as the people at a service site who are responsible for managing the service.
Reflection
You can help your participants have a more meaningful service experience and help them better understand Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the civil rights movement, the concept of nonviolence, building the Beloved Community, and the purpose of the King Day of Service by leading a "reflection" activity at the end of the service project.
Following Up
Even after your event has ended, you still have a little more work to do.
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