Reading, Pa. (Jan. 17, 2011) – On Martin Luther King Day, 170 participants including dozens of student-athletes from the Ice Hockey and Track and Field teams came back to school a day early in order to donate their time to benefit the Reading community. The service projects were organized by Alvernia University's Campus Ministry in order to “take a day on” in honor of Martin Luther King and his dedication to helping others. 

All of the participants were sent to different locations throughout the Reading area in order to reach out and assist as many local organizations as possible. Starting the day at 9 a.m. and eventually returning to Alvernia at 2 p.m.

The student-athletes participated at multiple different sites including: Habitat for Humanity, Reading- Berks Conference of Churches, Shady Hollow Assisted Riding, Cops N Kids, Berks Encore-Mifflin, Berks Family Residential Center, Goggleworks, Children's Home of Reading, Olivet Boys & Girls Club, Reading Community Players, St. Joseph's Villa, Liberty Firefighter's Museum, Opportunity House, Animal Rescue League, St. Joseph's Church, and Easter Seals.

“We went to the Berkshire Mall to distribute details about Goggleworks, which is a non-profit art museum.  It gave me a good feeling because we helped an organization that dedicates itself to helping others and helping people is important and what counts the most,” said Colin Donovan, a freshman member of Track and Field. 

Senior Ice Hockey defenseman, Howard Bates shared his thoughts saying, “We helped repaint an auditorium and stage in preparation for the thwarted next play. It was a great experience and it felt satisfying to help give back to the community.”

“I thought that helping out on MLK day was a great experience.  I really felt like a part of something and it felt even better to see the smiles on the children's faces who were being helped,” said Stephanie Coleman, freshman member of Track and Field. “I hope they have a lot more service days in the future.”

Alvernia participates in three “Days of Service” annually, Martin Luther King Day being the second day of service. The next “Day of Service” will take place on Tuesday, April 19, 2011 in recognition of Earth Day.