Bronco Family Honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Legacy Through Service
A group that included 46 students, five staff, two faculty, seven alumni, and one friend recently came together to make a meaningful impact in the local community.
Organized by the Center for Community Engagement, the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service provided an opportunity for volunteers to honor Dr. King’s legacy by engaging in acts of service at Kellogg Polytechnic Elementary School.
Armed with paintbrushes, cleaning supplies, and a shared commitment to service, volunteers worked together during the Jan. 25 event to revitalize the Kellogg Polytechnic Elementary campus. From painting vibrant murals to decorating shared spaces, their collective efforts transformed the school into a more colorful, welcoming, and inspiring environment for students and staff alike.
"The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service brings the Cal Poly Pomona community together to make a meaningful impact while connecting with the greater Pomona community. These events align with the CCE’s mission by inspiring civic engagement, enhancing learning, and encouraging career exploration through hands-on service,” said Lauren Bernal, Engaged Learning Coordinator.
For student volunteers, the experience was not only fulfilling but deeply impactful.
“With Kellogg Elementary School being so close to campus, giving back to the younger generation is extremely important. At first, I was just volunteering for my CE credit for the Kellogg Honors College, but after I heard the principal and teachers talk about the underfunding and the importance of beautification days, the event turned into so much more,” said Kennedy Williams, a junior civil engineering student. “Several projects took place that day, but I was involved with helping paint a mural on the playground. It is crucial to be involved in service events like this because although I do not know any children that attend there, we got several messages from staff there explaining how grateful they and the students were for our hard work. It was only a few hours for us, but it meant the world to them.”
Adam Frederick, a sophomore studying psychology, echoed a similar sentiment.
“I feel this event was important to me and the other students who volunteered because it highlighted the direct impact our actions can have on the community around us,” Frederick said. “Many students complemented our art as we painted the mural and you could really see and feel the positive impact, we were able to leave on the school and the students who go there.”
The appreciation from Kellogg Polytechnic Elementary School was heartfelt.
“On behalf of our entire school community, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your time, effort, and generosity during the MLK Service/Beautification event at Kellogg [on] Saturday. Your dedication and hard work have truly made a lasting impact on our campus, creating a more welcoming and vibrant environment for our students,” said Kellogg Polytechnic Principal Esmeralda Vargas. “Hearing of so many volunteers coming together to enhance our school grounds was both inspiring and uplifting. Your commitment to giving back to the community sets a wonderful example for our students, and we deeply appreciate your partnership in making our school a better place. Thank you again for your kindness and support—we hope to collaborate again in the future.”
The success of the event would not have been possible without the support of campus partners, including Kellogg Honors College, the Alumni Association, and the Educational Opportunity Program. Their collaboration and support made this day of service a meaningful and impactful experience for all involved.
For more information on upcoming opportunities to volunteer at a Day of Service event, visit the Center for Community Engagement website or follow them on Instagram @cppcce.