Monday was Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Sure, banks and some government offices were closed. But, besides that, what does it mean?
The observance was originally established to honor King’s legacy, a legacy of promoting civil rights and equality for all human beings. But, it has taken on a broader meaning. President Barrack Obama has declared this past Saturday as National Day of Service.
The idea was to promote volunteerism in America and encourage people to get involved. One would think there would be a barrage of volunteer events across our state commemorating this set aside day of service. But, the organization Volunteer Kansas reported that a quick search of the Internet, including its own website Volunteerkansas.org, found virtually nothing. The simple fact, if one talks to just about any non-profit, is volunteers are needed every single day, not just on the National Day of Service.
The special day set aside for such involvement may have passed with little fanfare, but that doesn’t there is nothing to do. The good news is, if one is looking for a place to serve, there are many, and they are available every day of the year. 
Locally, we have United Way, Relay for Life, Court Appointed Special Advocates, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and many service clubs. There are a lot of ways to share time and talents with the community.
Just like King message reverberates beyond his lifetime and continues to inspire people today, let us seize that momentum to make a broader difference in our society.
Dale Hogg