January 18, 2010

Martin Luther King Jr. Service Day

Over 200 corps members, students families, friends, alumni, and corporate partners joined City Year San Jose/Silicon Valley to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Lee Mathson Middle School. 

Guest speakers included:

• Mayor Chuck Reed, City of San Jose
• Orlando Ramos, Principal, Lee Mathson Middle School
• Anna Martin, Teacher, Lee Mathson Middle School
• Molly Wilmoth, Teacher, Lee Mathson Middle School
• Raquel Gonzalez, Market President, Bank of America

Volunteers transformed the school library into a usable facility, painted panel murals, inscribed inspirational quotes on the school walls,
re-designed rooms, constructed a garden and built benches.

What volunteers enjoyed most about the day: 

    “I got to make a change!” 
    “Seeing the yellow jackets again and serving my community.” 
    “Being able to help a school.” 
    “The interaction with a variety of inspiring people.” 
    “Making an impact on the students to show that we care.” 
    “Seeing a large diverse group sharing the values I do.” 
    “EVERYTHING!”

“Everyone can be great because anyone can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.