On January 20th, 2025, Edward Waters University's Department of Athletics, along with student-athletes from every team, took part in the United Way Northeast Florida's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. The day was not only a tribute to the legacy of Dr. King, but also an opportunity for the student-athletes to give back to the Jacksonville community in a meaningful and impactful way. The teams participated in a community-wide effort to collect over 230 Snack Packs and Birthday Boxes designed to bring joy to children in the Duval County area.
The event kicked off early that morning on the campus of Edward Waters University, where a large group of student-athletes gathered at the athletic complex. There was a palpable sense of excitement and purpose as the teams geared up for the day ahead. The volunteer effort was part of the larger MLK Day of Service organized by the United Way Northeast Florida, aimed at addressing some of the pressing needs of children and families in the region.
A Day of Giving Back
The teams split into groups, with each group focusing on different elements of the project. The Snack Packs were designed to provide essential snacks to students who may not have access to regular meals, so they were a top priority. These packs included a variety of nutritious and easy-to-eat snacks, such as granola bars, fruit cups, crackers, and juice boxes. The student-athletes worked tirelessly throughout the morning, sorting and packing the items into individual bags, ready to be distributed to schools and community organizations.
At the same time, other student-athletes focused on preparing the Birthday Boxes. These boxes were a thoughtful initiative aimed at providing children in underserved areas with the means to celebrate their birthdays. Each Birthday Box was filled with decorations, party supplies, small toys, and birthday cards. Edward Waters ensured that every child could have a memorable celebration, no matter their circumstances. The student-athletes carefully assembled the boxes, and their enthusiasm was contagious, as they personalized the items with special touches, creating something truly meaningful for each child who would receive a box.
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