BEND, OR -- More than 20 Central Oregon non-profits took part in Monday’s MLK Day of Service. Volunteer events were coordinated by Connect Central Oregon, United Way of Central Oregon, OSU Cascades, COCC, and Americorps.

The Council on Aging of Central Oregon asked people to stock items at their Donation Store says volunteer-manager Marianne McClure, “We did a reflection at the end of the volunteer opportunity where we reflected on Martin Luther King, and what this day of service meant for all of us who were involved.” McClure says it was also a good chance for people to find out what services the Council on Aging provides, “They learned more about our organization; who we serve, what volunteer opportunities that we have. They aren’t current volunteers. I believe at least one of them will come back and volunteer in a different capacity. It was good for us because we don’t offer one-time volunteer opportunities that often. And so, it was a good chance for the community to see what we’re all about on this Martin Luther King Day of Service.”

Overall, around 200 people signed up to volunteer at events throughout Central Oregon for the annual event to honor Dr. King’s legacy.