SWEDESBORO — Swedesboro is hosting the area’s best MLK Day program on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023 at 1 p.m. at the Margaret Clifford Elementary School, 601 Auburn Ave.
The events include an inspirational program, art and essay contests, and Community Service Awards. This highly acclaimed program is returning after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. “We are thrilled to be back,” exclaimed Rev. Sherry Lynn Hall, HELP, Inc., Director of Community Programming.
The main event is a free inspirational program with something for everyone. It will feature the award-winning Creative Arts High School Concert Choir, riveting Trumpet Chicks Jazz Band, professional reenactments of Dr. King’s speeches, local youth performers, community service awards, refreshments, and much more.
The Trumpet Chicks are known throughout the region as a premiere teen performance band. Their performances combine jazz, hip-hop, soul, and funk. Senior members of the band perform professionally and have won national competitions. The CHS Concert choir has performed internationally winning Gold awards in several categories nationally.
“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 Margaret Clifford School is on the site of the last colored-only school established in New Jersey, The Auburn Ave. School. “The committee felt that celebrating the accomplishments of Dr. King on a previously segregated location was only fitting,” she said.
The Richardson Avenue School, a colored-only school and national historic site, is adjacent to the Clifford School parking lot.
There are art and essay contests for students in grades K-12. Winners will receive certificates and prizes. Additionally, Community Service Awards will be distributed to individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the community throughout 2022. All winners will be acknowledged at the MLK Day Program.
These events are sponsored by the Historical and Educational Lodge-Hall Preservatory, Inc., and community partners. HELP, Inc. is non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization committed to producing engaging and educational programs and preserving African-American historic sites in Swedesboro-Woolwich. HELP, Inc. provides several community events and tours of its historic sites throughout the year. All are welcome.
Donations are solicited to support the youth performers and awardees. For more information and/or to make a donation go to www.helpinc.org. Also, like and share the Facebook page: MLK Day Celebration.
