Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, at noon at the Margaret Clifford Elementary School, 601 Auburn Ave, Swedesboro. The event includes a memorial program, free health screenings, and a coat drive.
The main event will be a free memorial program featuring the award-winning Creative Arts High School Concert Choir, recitations of Dr. King’s speeches, local youth performers, community service awards, refreshments, and much more. The Creative Arts High School String Ensemble will wow audiences with their Latin orchestra music. The CAHS Concert Choir members, always a highlight of the program, have performed internationally winning gold awards in several countries. The memorial program will begin at noon.
“We chose to hold the program at the Margaret Clifford School because of the school’s historical location,” states Rev. Sherry Hall, program chair. The Clifford School is on the site of the last colored-only school established in New Jersey, The Auburn Ave. School.
The public is encouraged to come early (11:30) for free health screenings by local providers. Additionally, bring new, or gently used coats for the unhoused.
There is a Visual Art Contest for students K-12 on the program’s theme: I Am the Change. Winners will receive certificates and prizes.
Additionally, Community Service Awards will be given to deserving individuals and/or organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the community. All awardees will be acknowledged during the memorial program.
These events are sponsored by HELP, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 organization (www.helpinc.org), local businesses, churches, and civic organizations. Donations are needed to offset the program’s costs. To donate, and get more information, visit: www.helpinc.org. Information is available on the Facebook Pages: MLK Day Celebration and HELP Inc.
This program is made possible by funds from the New Jersey Historical Commission/Department of State and the Gloucester County Cultural and Heritage Commission.
