Ohio volunteers strive for unity through service

<p>Ohioans from all over the state answered Martin Luther King, Junior's call to action Monday.<br> <br> MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service. Sarah Short is the volunteer engagement program officer at <a href="https://serve.ohio.gov/" target="_blank">ServeOhio</a>, the state commission on service and volunteerism.<br> <br> She said all Americans are encouraged to honor the legacy of the late civil rights leader through service to one another, and to their communities.<br> <br> "He spoke a lot on the 'Beloved Community,'" said Short. "And I think that serving on MLK Day really shows that you're committed to service to help really unify everyone, despite different backgrounds and experiences."<br> <br> ServeOhio awarded grants ranging from $750 to $1,500 to nine service projects underway today.<br> <br> Throughout Ohio, thousands of people are taking part in volunteer events organized by their schools, churches and other organizations as well.<br> <br> People interested in giving back to their communities can find opportunities throughout the year online at '<a href="https://serve.ohio.gov/" target="_blank">serve.ohio.gov</a>.'<br> <br> About 300 volunteers will be involved ServeOhio's grant projects, which include community garden renovations, food distribution, and assembling safety kits for homes. At <a href="https://www.one-eighty.org/" target="_blank">OneEighty</a> in Wooster, a domestic abuse treatment center, Short said they're putting together self-care bags.<br> <br> "They're also going to be presenting to their volunteers on resources that they can share with people in their lives," said Short. "So that more people know that if they are victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, they are able to get those resources and it's not so much of a sadly kept secret."<br> <br> She noted every project includes a component to help promote Dr. King's message of peace, unity and service.<br> <br> <em>This story was produced in association with Media in the Public Interest