Reflections: MLK Day of Service in Highland Park 

I had the opportunity to participate in Highland Park's 15th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Seeing so many community members braving the frigid cold to celebrate service on this important day is fantastic.

Engaging with numerous local organizations dedicated to bettering our society reinforced for me Martin Luther King's message that change begins with us. We cannot merely wait for change; we must actively contribute to it.

One organization I met today was K9 Reading Buddies of the North Shore. They help at-risk youth develop critical reading skills by allowing them to read stories to specially-trained dogs! The organization has helped hundreds of children develop a love for reading, and it all started because one woman, Carole, made her dream a reality.

As a candidate for the Lake County Board, witnessing the dedication of these organizations reinforced my commitment to fostering community-driven solutions. Today's event serves as a poignant reminder that by working together and embracing responsibility, we can create a community that reflects the ideals championed by Martin Luther King, Jr. Let us be the change we wish to see. - Andy