CASPER — To honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Equality Day in Wyoming, ServeWyoming this year offers Natrona County residents a way to give back to the community and make a difference in other’s lives.
ServeWyoming Executive Director Shelly McAlpin said her agency, the state’s volunteer hub, is spearheading a service project for Casper’s homeless population that aims to fill 300 gift bags for the homeless.
“Every year we do a national service project and we coexist those with MLK Day,” she said.
As in past years, the group is partnering with the Project Homeless Connect organization that performs an annual homeless count. This year that count will be Jan. 24.
ServeWyoming is asking Casper residents to donate personal hygiene items and winter apparel to be part of the service project set for Monday, when an hour will be set aside to package the donated items for the city’s annual homeless count.
McAlpin said 75% of the homeless in the community are male.
For all the homeless, they are seeking items such as shampoo, deodorant, lotion, soap, dental floss, feminine hygiene products and other necessities. The group also asks for gently used coats, winter socks, gloves, hats and other items as part of the drive.
Residents can also help the homeless pet population by donating dry dog food and bedding.
Where To Donate
Prior to Monday, McAlpin said items may be dropped off at ServeWyoming, 330 South Center St., Suite 317. The donations can also be brought to the First United Methodist Church, 302 E. 2nd St. on Monday before the project begins at noon.
“During our service project we make bags that are going to be filled with hygiene products and winter gear,” she said. “And when those individuals are going out and doing that homeless count, they are giving these bags away.”
A celebration and remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. will be part of the effort. The celebration starts with a 9 a.m. “Unity” art display by area students at Art 321, at 321 Midwest Ave. in Casper that will include coffee and donuts.
From there, a march through downtown Casper will include a stop at the city’s mural honoring the Rev. James Joseph Reeb, a Casper native and pastor who died during a visit to Selma, Alabama in March 1965 to protest the violence that occurred against blacks in the city.
The march ends at First United Methodist Church, where there will be a service from 11 a.m. to noon featuring music and keynote speakers Kendyl Terry and his wife, Ginger Terry.
Kendyl Terry is a high school guidance administrator, teacher, musician and worship leader. Ginger Terry is a mental health therapist at the Healing Place in Casper. The service will include a pledge of non-violence.
After the service, volunteers for the service project will be invited to help bag the donated items in the church basement.
People of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can get involved, McAlpin said. For opportunities to not only give back on this day, but any day, visit ServeWyoming.org and click on “Volunteer.”
