PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia’s spirit of service shone brightly this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, as two exceptional citizens, Yanah Jefferies and Jeron Williams II, already known for their dedication to AmeriCorps, represented Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps at a special event. Alongside President Biden, Mayor Parker, and passionate leaders from AmeriCorps and Philabundance, these individuals contributed to the effort of packing food distribution boxes.
Philadelphia-born Yanah Jefferies, serving her second stint with AmeriCorps VISTA, was humbled to stand shoulder to shoulder with leaders she regarded as instrumental in strengthening her city and nation. Her role with the Department of Commerce involves fostering community engagement and collating neighborhood data. She considers the community as the pulse of all service efforts. For Jefferies, the occasion was nothing short of magical, marked by laughter, tears, and an enduring sense of camaraderie, all in honor of MLK.
Jeron Williams II, another local hero, serves with the Office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity as AmeriCorps Financial Empowerment VISTA. Williams was eager to share the power of young voices from Philadelphia with the leaders present at the event. He appreciates AmeriCorps CEO Michael Smith’s optimism about the growth of AmeriCorps programs in Philly and the surge in youthful interest in volunteerism.
“President Biden listened to our tales of service with great empathy,” said Yanah, enthralled at the space leaders provided for AmeriCorps members to express their dedication to community development. She and Jeron felt acknowledged and cherished, their services recognized by Philly’s local and national leaders. Their strong representation of the Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps was a matter of great pride for the program.
Both Williams and Jefferies had valuable insights for those considering national service with AmeriCorps agencies. Williams urged individuals to seize opportunities presented during their service year, as you never know where they might lead. Jefferies shared that dedication to reducing poverty and assisting the needy was not an easy commitment, but one that brought immense fulfillment and gratitude.
This MLK Day of Service shows that Philadelphia’s strength lies in its community and passion for service. Yanah Jefferies and Jeron Williams II, representing Philadelphia’s spirit, forged an unforgettable bond with the nation’s leaders while honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
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