Each year, African American History Month gives us a chance to remember the often unsung heroes who are living examples of Dr. Martin Luther King's belief that “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.”

Stories like those below highlight the contributions of African Americans whose actions mirror our mission to enhance economic opportunity, promote healthy living, improve educational opportunities, and provide environmental stewardship – both in the past and in the future.

An Interview with Ruby Bridges

As one of four children chosen to integrate the New Orleans public schools, 6-year-old Ruby Bridges faced screaming mobs on her way to class every day. But the story changed when she entered the doors

From Civil Rights to Silver Rights

James Bailey wants to help minority communities become more financially literate and gain economic empowerment through Operation HOPE and the HOPE Center at Ebenezer in Atlanta. Organizers hope the center becomes the first step in a new Poor People's Campaign, and brings opportunity to an underserved population.

Ready, Set, Go: NFL Player Challenges Kids to Get Active in Reading and Exercise

Former NFL player Chris Draft has partnered with the CNCS initiative Let's Read! Let's Move! to challenge kids to tackle two of the biggest problems facing them today: literacy and exercise.

Educating Green Builders

A post-Katrina initiative provides training for disenfranchised young adults to give them training in green construction methods and help revitalize communities hit hard by natural disasters and tough economic times.

Creating a Culture of Achievement in Atlanta

A cheating scandal in Atlanta led Kwanza Fisher to create a supplemental math education program to increase math skills of students in grades 1 through 8. Fisher and her program Neighborhood Mathematica, were honored by the White House as a Champion of Change.

These are just a few of the individuals contributing through service. Have other favorites? We want to hear about them. Tell us about your favorite story from the serve.gov blog or share one of a local hero in your community via Facebook and Twitter.

Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifice that veterans have made for our country and an opportunity to create a more meaningful experience for the veterans in your community. One way you can create a lasting memory of service is to record the story of a veteran in your life and contribute it to the Veterans History Project.