Group's King Day of Service in need of funds

Youth Conservation Corps loses national sponsorship

WAUKEGAN -- "A day on, not a day off" is the unofficial motto of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, which individuals and groups use to volunteer in their communities as a way to honor the legacy of the slain civil rights leader.

But the tough economy could put the skids on the next King Day of Service on Jan. 18. The Youth Conservation Corps in Waukegan has lost sponsorship from the YCC national affiliate for the event. The affiliate withdrew due to lack of funds, according to Barbara Poole, YCC community outreach coordinator.

The local YCC needs $2,500 to cover the cost of transportation, lunches and other materials to accomplish projects at 20 local nonprofits. Sponsorship gives a local business or corporation the opportunity for their employees to participate in the day of service and also to attach their name and logo to the event.

Poole said the day is important to YCC which works to turn at-risk young adults into productive citizens through mentorship, education, job skills training and community service.

"The belief in equality and justice of which Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke is still not a reality, but a dream we are still striving for," Poole said. "We want to instill in our youth that same dream and to inspire them to give back to our community."

King, who was assassinated in 1968, urged people to "rise above the narrow confines" of their individual concerns and to consider "the broader concerns of all humanity."

"That's what this organization is all about," said Lisa Niemietz, development manager for NorthPointe Resources in Zion, where YCC sent more than 45 volunteers last Jan. 19. The workers cleaned and sanitized tables on the production floor and cleaned and remodeled a client residence.

"They did a fantastic job," Niemietz said.

During four past King days of service, YCC staff, trainees and other volunteers laid carpet, painted walls and boxed food at nonprofits including the Northern Illinois Food Bank, YMCA, Staben House, Waukegan Public Library and the North Chicago VA Medical Center.

"They're honoring Dr. King and giving back to their community," Niemietz said.