The University of Redlands’ Community Service Learning (CSL) organization strives to actively celebrate holidays like Martin Luther King Jr. Day, epitomized in their motto: “Make it a day on, not a day off.”
More than 83 students and staff answered the call on Jan. 22, making no-sew fleece blankets for the Get on the Bus program, a statewide initiative that organizes trips for children to see their incarcerated parents. Erin Sanborn, the CSL director of sustainable education, explained that the blankets and activity kits help make the long bus rides, which can exceed eight hours, more comfortable.
The event was scheduled to last from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., but thanks to the high turn-out, it ended an hour early. The blanket-making was accompanied by a screening of the MLK documentary “Eyes on the Prize” and a pizza lunch.
Redlands’ CSL has been working with Get on the Bus since 2016, organizing this blanket-making event for the program’s correctional facility visits, along with other activities. Erin Sanborn, a CSL official, spoke highly of the Get on the Bus program and how it helps family members maintain meaningful connections even during challenging times and circumstances.
“Those relationships provide a safety network for both youth and parents,” Sanborn said. “Parents who are incarcerated work hard to become a part of the program and treasure the time they get with their family. Being able to support that aligns with my values and the values of our office.”
This CSL activity was one of the numerous events that celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. Week, which was Jan. 20-24 this year. By providing this opportunity for students to engage in something greater than themselves, CSL works to promote community involvement and selfless service.
McKenzie Rose, a sophomore double-majoring in Environmental Studies and Journalism, serves as the Redlands Bulldog Editor-in-Chief this semester. McKenzie first dabbled in the world of journalism during high school by working as a freelance reporter with the municipal Hermiston Herald and regional East Oregonian newspapers near her hometown of Echo, Oregon. She enjoys running (participating in the university’s track & field and cross country teams), spending time with her pets, traveling and listening to good ‘ol country music!
