Engaging Twin Cities Youth In a Day Dedicated to Service

March 12, 2010

Author: Steve Hunegs

Source: Minneapolis Star Tribune

http://www.startribune.com/yourvoices/87491587.html?elr=KArksc8P:Pc:UthPacyPE7iUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

National holidays hold a variety of meanings. In the United States we have days to honor civi l rights leaders; days to express our gratitude for the patriotism demonstrated by the men and women who have served and are currently serving our country; and days to show our appreciation to our founding leaders.  For many of us, these national holidays offer time with our family and friends.  For over 300 youth and adult volunteers in the Twin Cities, this past Presidents’ Day was a day dedicated to community service. 

On February 15, 2010, youth and adult volunteers joined together at the Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul for the 5th annual Interfaith Youth Day of Service. The Interfaith Youth Day of Service is an event of the Twin Cities Interfaith Youth Leadership Coalition (IYLC), a collaborative program of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas and the Saint Paul Area Council of Churches.  The “day off” brought together Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Unitarian Universalist, Baha’i, Atheist, Mormon, Catholic, Buddhist, and non-religious youth to respond to a common call of service, justice, and advocacy.  

See also: Interfaith, Civic, Youth