JFK Day of Service Set for November

A day of service across Dallas County in November is being organized as one of the events to mark the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy's assassination.

The citizen-led JFK Day of Service on Nov. 23 is meant to encourage people to volunteer at charitable organizations. Volunteer signups kicked off at a Tuesday news conference with the goal of filling more than 2,500 spots that day.

Chart Westcott, the Dallas businessman who founded the event, says the event is a way for citizens to be part of Kennedy's legacy of service.

"As our city mobilizes to fill the volunteer needs of organizations across the city, we will demonstrate our commitment to answering the president's call to serve our county," he said in a news release.

Kennedy was assassinated while riding in a motorcade through downtown Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963. This year, organizations throughout the city are planning events to mark the anniversary. The city of Dallas will mark the date with a solemn ceremony featuring the tolling of church bells, a moment of silence and readings from Kennedy's speeches by historian David McCullough.

Westcott said those participating in the day of service can participate in community service projects ranging from the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Texas to the Salvation Army of Dallas.

Earlier in November, the JFK Day of Service will partner with Special Olympics Texas to host the "Carry the Torch" 5K. The Nov. 7 race will begin and end at the JFK memorial in downtown Dallas.

Also through JFK Day of Service, companies can sponsor a "dream project" by donating the funds and resources to complete certain projects for charitable organizations on Nov. 23.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us