There are many ways to give to others—your time, your money, your talents, and so on. Some give their all. 

This Monday we celebrate and honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The civil rights activist was only 39 years old when he was assassinated in 1968. 

King was fighting for something that every person should receive—equality and justice. 

In 1994, MLK Day was also designated a Day of Service. Inspired by King’s life of service, Congressman John Lewis and former Senator Harris Wofford proposed the legislation to encourage Americans to volunteer and improve their communities.

As written about in Lori Orestano-James’ column Know It All in our Tuesday edition, there are many ways to give back in Sullivan County (check out her column for a list of ideas, as well as our calendar for upcoming events). 

Let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy through civic action like food drives, community cleanups and mentoring the youth. 

Speaking of youth, it was great to see them get involved at SUNY Sullivan’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Youth Summit last Friday (see story on page 1B). 

The annual event focused on leadership, service and civic engagement as well as inspiring students to believe in their selves and commit to success. 

Let’s follow their example.