For many kids, Martin Luther King Day means an extra day off from school. But organizers at People's AME Zion say that's not the case.
"Everyone thinks it's a day off but our pastor, Daren Jaime, says it's a day off but it's a day on,” said People's AME Zion Event Coordinator Tracee Jennings.
They're using the MLK Holiday to re-energize and refuel students halfway through their school year by providing supplies and boosting their confidence.
“We wanted to do something mid-year to replenish their supplies as well as encourage them to finish the rest of the year strong,” said Jennings.
“We have barbers here...we have hairstylists here,” said Jennings, referring to students receiving haircuts.
“A haircut does a lot,” said Ezekiel Matos, a volunteer barber. “You can come in looking like a wolf man and leave out looking life Prince Charming.”
They say this is their way to fulfill Dr. King's dream.
“Dr. King was big on motivating young kids to be the best that they can be,” said Jennings.
Their goal is to make students feel better so they can be and do better.
“I know when they go to school they're going to just be showing off and feeling good,” said Jennings.
“I think it sends them back to school with an absolutely rejuvenated attitude,” said Jennings.
A rejuvenated attitude brought to them by their community and volunteers.