On January 19, 2009 a group of Belhaven College students proved the school’s motto — “To serve, not to be served” — is more than just an empty slogan.

To commemorate Martin Luther King Day a group of 80 Belhaven students joined the staff of the Perkins Foundation for a day of service. The 80 students were members of Belhaven’s men’s soccer team and women’s softaball, volleyball and soccer teams. The coaches and managers pitched in, too.

“We love coming down here to help out,” Men’s soccer coach Steve DeCou said. “What 80 of us do in a few hours might take one person a whole week.”

Its a school-wide day of service each MLK Day. Classes are cancelled and students are encouraged to find a ministry, church or school to volunteer at.

“We appreciate Belhaven so much,” Volunteer Coordinator Wayne Perkins said. “Its always great to have folks from the school around.

As the students left Wayne signed them up for another year.

“Same time next year, y’all!”

“We’ll be here!” one of the students shouted back.

If you’re interested in volunteering at the Perkins Center call Wayne at 601-238-3024.

Last Thursday, January 15, John Perkins spoke to the kids at the Spencer Perkins Center.

“Who was Martin Luther King Jr.?” Dr. Perkins asked.

“A civil rights leader,” “Jalesa, 5^th grade, promptly answered. “He made the black and white people equal!” Omari, 7^th grade, said. Jakaylah, 2^nd grade, called out, “He preached in D.C. in churches and marched.” “And led boycotts,” Permelia, 5^th grade, boldly stated.

As Dr. Perkins remembered Dr. King, he spoke from his heart about the fulfillment of a dream, King’s dream. Perkins believes there is no excuse now for African-Americans to fail.

“We’ve never had a place in this society where we weren’t second class citizens.” — until now. With the inauguration of Barack Obama, King’s dream was finally fulfilled.

“King had a dream. Obama is that dream.”