The MLK Challenge Model

This video captures highlights from Appalachian's 2009 MLK Challenge

The ACT (Appalachian and Community Together) Office at Appalachian State University (Boone, NC) created the MLK Challenge in 2000. It is a day of service projects... but with a twist. For the Challenge, groups of 10-12 individuals are formed and then randomly assigned a service challenge. Each group brainstorms ways to complete their project. Group may receive seed money, but must secure additional resources to address their challenge. The entire event is organized by a planning committee composed primarily of students with staff and faculty support. It is also recommended that at least one community partner serve on the committee.

Service projects are selected by the committee based on requests of local community agencies orschools, placing priority on projects with greatest need for completion. Projects should assist participating partners with activities that they typically would not have the time or resources to complete. The "challenges" are primarily manual/physical labor and all projects allow participating community partners to expand or improve their capacity to serve.

The MLK Challenge model incorporates educational/service-learning components. The orientation includes videos of Dr. King's speeches, large posters of service-related quotes from Dr. King on walls, and an "MLK Trivia Game." During the closing session, teams re-assemble to reflect upon King's message through large group activities facilitated by the MLK Day Challenge planning team students.   

See the documents below for additional information.

*This document is only for use by applicants and grantees. All other interested parties must contact NC Campus Compact to use.

For specific questions about implementing the MLK Challenge model, please contact Kara Brown, the NC Campus Compact MLK VISTA, with any questions.

Kara Brown, MLK VISTA

336.278.7125