It's a busy Monday for our community as folks are coming together to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

He's remembered across the world as the man who started movements to promote civil rights. He was killed in 1968, but his efforts continued.

Not only are people celebrating MLK Day, they're also recognizing National Day of Service.

Those involved at Shenandoah University remembrance program say the two days easily tie together. King believed in uniting communities through service.

"Dr. King's message goes beyond just the civil rights movement. It goes on to a human rights movement. And as you look around the world today, that's a big issue," said Mike Madden.

Madden is part of the AmeriCorps VISTA program at Shenandoah University. Their goal is to improve local communities by helping students get involved in volunteer work. They also spread awareness through programs like SU's Martin Luther King Remembrance Service.

"There is a quote that the coorporation uses and it's from Dr. King. And it's a great quote and the quote is: "Everyone can be great because everyone can serve." And that's really the focus of what we're working at right now," said Madden.

He says everyone who serves in their community is helping to unite as one. Nick Ruxton is one of those people. He's part of SU's Spiritual Life program.

"Spiritual life is really big on building community and you know, justice," said student, Nick Ruxton.

He says lately, he's seen a lot of age discrimination.

"The younger generations and the older generations. You know the older ones, that's how it's always been, but these younger generations are coming in and thinking of better ways to do stuff and you know something more efficient," said Ruxton.

While everyone has different opinions, he says the overall goal of the event is to put differences aside and encourage people to come together to remember a man who based his life on community.

"Giving of ones self and serving others probably is the greatest way to grow," said Madden.

Martin Luther King Jr. Service of Remembrance begins at 3 p.m. in Goodson Chapel/Recital Hall. It's free and open to the public. Click here for a list of community MLK events and closings.

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