Why I Serve: Because service became a part of me

Martin Luther King Jr. said it best, “everybody can be great…because everybody can serve.” This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, a national holiday designed for individuals to be able to serve their communities.

Dr. King was a servant leader, and to this day continues to inspire countless individuals around the world to give back to their communities. He is remembered for accomplishing extraordinary things on behalf of people in need but more importantly, he leaves a legacy of encouraging others to find their greatness through service.

While January 17, 2011 is the day when thousands of people around the country will participate in service projects, we are most excited about the people that will be inspired to make service a priority year round.  And, to celebrate our friends and neighbors who have made an impact by quietly serving their communities every day, we’re excited to highlight these heroes on a series on CaseFoundation.org entitled “Why I Serve”. This post is a part of that series.

Interview with Evan Waldt of City Year, DC.

Evan Waldt grew up in rural Pennsylvania, he attended High School in Florida as well as attend classes at a Community College in Gainesville, Florida. In college Evan was a Model United Nations Outstanding Delegate, he has also worked in the restaurant business for over 10 years, and is an Eagle Scout. Currently, he is serving his second year with City Year Washington, DC. 

What made you want to become involved?

Why not serve?  I believe in national service and I come from a long line of veterans.   I knew I wanted to serve my country in some way.

Why did you decide to begin a second year of service with City Year?

I decided to do a second year of City Year because one year wasn't enough.  I made lasting friendships which drew me back to City Year. I wanted to ensure that young individuals would have a transformational year during their time with City Year, just like I did. 

Everyone’s lives are busy; what inspires you to make service a priority in your life?

I always tell myself: “If not me, then who?”  It has become a part of who I am. 

Are you participating in a service project on MLK day?  If so, what?

Yes. City Year Washington, DC will be engaging over 700 volunteers in painting and construction projects at: Anacostia High School, Kramer Middle School, Ketchum Elementary School, The House DC, and The Children’s Center. I am co-leading a team of corps members who have been planning and prepping this event for months – it’s going to be great!

Why do you think people should serve year round?

People should serve year round because hunger, illiteracy, and social injustice do not take time off, why should we?

Do you have any anecdotes that inspire you to serve that you’d like to share?

Last year, I taught the third graders I worked with something they did not know-Kickball. This is simple childhood rite of passage that I had the privileged to experience. The children learned sportsmanship, fair play, and discipline, but most importantly-humanity. The ability to let the youngest kick first, knowing that losing is ok, letting everyone get a turn and letting kids of all abilities play. For those 30 minutes twice a week, no inequality mattered; the world had purpose, the game was fair, and I had pride for each and every student.

Why do you serve?

I serve with City Year because if I wasn't serving I would not be in a such positive place. I struggled to get my bearing in the usual timeline of high school through college, and came to a crossroads at City Year. When I began my service, I didn't believe in City Year, but City Year believed in me. Not only have I developed as a person, a professional, and a friend, I have been afforded the opportunity to experience some amazing things.