The Tribune

MONDAY, January 20, was recognised in the United States as a day of service to commemorate Martin Luther King Day.

It was observed as “A Day On, Not Off”, where time was set aside by thousands of volunteers throughout the world to honour Dr King’s legacy of service through local community outreach programmes.

Throughout his life, Dr King advocated service to all humanity and encouraged people to embrace the principles of nonviolence and equality, without regard to race, creed of colour.

On the US national holiday, in MLK’s observance, the United States Embassy partnered with members of Bahamas Methodist Habitat to serve at the Persis Rogers Home for the Aged.

The Bahamas Methodist Habitat is a group of dedicated volunteers who help to provide home repairs and new home construction communities in need throughout the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

More than 20 Embassy volunteers representing several agencies including the Department of State, the US Marine Corps, the US Coast Guard, the Office of Defence Co-operation and Bahamian Embassy staff teamed up with Bahamas Methodist Habitat for several hours to enhance the living conditions at the residential community that is home to more than 20 elderly Bahamians.

The refurbishment effort included painting the interior of the building, tree trimming, and repairs to the exterior structure of the home including the laundry facility that was recently damaged by fire.

Bahamas Waste also pitched in, providing assistance with the disposal of the debris that was collected following the clean-up.

During the visit, some of the Embassy volunteers also took time to chat with the residents and enjoyed the opportunity to learn little nuggets of wisdom from them, sprinkled with their vibrant sense of humour.

“It is the hope of the US Embassy that this latest community service project between the Embassy and local partners promotes a spirit of volunteerism and serves as an inspiration for other businesses and organisations throughout the Bahamas,” said officials in a statement.