On January 12, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack recognized and celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King’s Birthday by declaring a National Service Day for all USDA employees. The National Service Day honored Dr. King’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. Events were held simultaneously at all USDA Offices followed by a variety of Service Projects conducted in communities nationwide. USDA Rural Development Jackson, Mississippi state office employees, Michelle Wilkerson, Eliza Garcia, Ericka Butler, and Jennifer Jimerson spent National Service Day volunteering at the Jackson Stewpot Community Center.
“I was thrilled to see our staff plan and participate in activities on National Service Day. I know they will continue to serve throughout their communities throughout the year,” said Mississippi Rural Development State Director Trina N. George.
While volunteering at Stewpot Community Center, the employees were actively involved by filling plates for the Meals on Wheels Program to serving food, wiping down tables, and folding chairs. The USDA staff members said it was a great joy to give and help those in need. Their experience at the Stewpot Community Center has encouraged them to give more volunteer hours at the center and around the community. They have agreed to continue involvement on their personal time at least four times a year.
USDA offers a number of opportunities to individuals who want to volunteer. To learn about one opportunity click here.
- USDA Mississippi Rural Development employees volunteer at Stewpot Community Center on National Service Day. The employees were actively involved by filling plates for the Meals on Wheels Program to serving food, wiping down tables, and folding chairs. (Pictured Left to right: Michelle Wilkerson, Eliza Garcia, Ericka Butler, Jennifer Jimerson)