By: Diana Molina, Community Impact and Investments Coordinator
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?" - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Every year, communities nationwide come together on MLK Day of Service to honor Dr. King's legacy through action. This year, United Way GBACC led the charge, partnering with dedicated volunteers and community supporters to turn service into impact through hands-on projects that inspire change.
Beautifying Our Community Through Service
On Monday, January 15, 2024, United Way GBACC mobilized more than 40 volunteers from multiple GCCISD schools and CP Chemical's BELIEVE group to enhance and beautify the school grounds at Banuelos Elementary. Over the course of the morning, volunteers planted 50 trees, creating a welcoming and vibrant outdoor space for students and families.
Beautification projects may seem small, but their impact lasts for generations.
- Campus Beautification - Enhancing school grounds makes spaces more inviting and enjoyable for students, teachers, and visitors.
- Community Pride - Coming together to improve shared spaces fosters a sense of ownership and care for the places where we live, work, and learn.
- Legacy of Service - Each tree planted stands as a lasting reminder of the power of volunteerism and collective action.
Empowering Students to Dream: The MLK Dream Wall Project
Beyond beautification, United Way GBACC partnered with Communities in Schools (CIS) of Baytown to inspire future generations through the MLK Dream Wall Project.
Led by Mel'Danci Robinson and the CIS Site Coordinators, this initiative encouraged students to reflect on their dreams, put them into words, and share them publicly. Across multiple campuses, students participated in an inspiring and inclusive experience that reinforced Dr. King's message of hope and perseverance.
"It was incredible to witness the students' enthusiasm and thoughtfulness as they participated in this activity, which encouraged self-reflection and hope for the future." - Mel'Danci Robinson, CIS Baytown
United Way GBACC remains committed to creating spaces where young people feel empowered to dream boldly and work toward a brighter future.
Collaboration Makes an Impact
United Way GBACC brought these projects to life through teamwork, dedication, and strong community partnerships. Led by Diana Molina and Brittany Rodriguez, United Way GBACC collaborated with Lori Rumfield of GCCISD to organize the tree planting at Banuelos Elementary and worked with Mel'Danci Robinson of Communities in Schools of Baytown to implement the MLK Dream Wall Project across multiple campuses.
Additionally, United Way GBACC extends a special thank-you to Trees for Houston, Deep Roots Nursery Baytown, The Houston Tool Bank, and The Baytown Home Depot for their generous support in providing the resources needed to plant 50 trees, helping to create a welcoming and vibrant space for students and families.
When organizations, volunteers, and businesses unite, meaningful, lasting change happens. United Way GBACC is proud to lead these efforts and continue creating opportunities that strengthen our community
Service Doesn't End Here
MLK Day of Service is just one day-but United Way GBACC's mission to strengthen our community continues all year long. If you're inspired by this project and want to get involved, Volunteer Connect is your gateway to making a difference.
Ready to take action? Visit Volunteer Connect to discover upcoming opportunities and contribute to impactful projects throughout Greater Baytown and Chambers County.
Thank you to every volunteer, partner, and supporter who made this day possible. This is what community looks like.