KYW NEWSRADIO 1060 - PHILADELPHIA CELEBRATES MLK DAY OF SERVICE

Monday marked the annual celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who would have turned 80 this year. Though it's a national holiday, millions of Americans are working to help others on this Day of Service. Volunteers were out in force to do their part.

KYW's Mike Dunn reports Tuesday's inauguration was very much topic 'A' at Monday's annual Martin Luther King Day luncheon in Philadelphia.

The event was not as crowded as in past years, but for a good reason - many were heading to DC for the inauguration.

The Jubilee Bell Ringers from Camden opened the luncheon with an ethereal verrsion of We Shall Overcome. Bob Nelson, President of the Philadelphia OIC, noted that a number of seats were open, but he didn't mind a bit:

"It's usually packed. Well it's not packed, because so many people are in washington dc. As well they should be. So we're really doing a lot of things but all with the same spirit of how historic all of this is."

And he expects everyone to be back for next year's MLK luncheon, and celebrating a year of the Obama presidency.

KYW's Karin Phillips reports that organizers at the signature project of the annual Martin Luther King Day of Service agree that Tuesday's Inauguration of Barack Obama (related articles) has excited Monday's community service projects, including one at Temple University's Liacouras Center.

Volunteers were building a green, environmentally friendly playground plus picnic tables and benches -- all for a rec center at 15th and York in North Philadelphia.

Don Pinkney is with Youth Build Charter School:

"Martin Luther King's holiday - the day of service - the energy level is always high, but because of what's happening tomorrow (Tuesday), it's just that extra level of energy, it's just amazing."

The day also launches the start of the MLK 365 initiative, designed to continue these projects past the one day.

KYW's John Ostapkovich reports that the National Constitution Center marked Martin Luther King Day with both education and service.

Along with the craft projects, and musical and dramatic performances highlighting Dr. King's legacy, was a large space on the second floor, bustling with activity benefiting the group Women Against Abuse.

Volunteer Courtney Hager:

"We're collecting women's clothing and shoes and boots and coats. We're also making quilts, baby quilts, kids quilts, bed quilts, throw quilts, all different kinds of sizes and shapes to donate to the shelter."

That shelter is nearly full, says its facilities manager Eric Smith, with clients fleeing abusive relationships:

"Most of the times they come in with nothing on their backs, except what they're wearing. We put together like a little small Care package for them so they can make it through the day."

And eventually take with them when they move on.


# # #