In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Aramark employees across the country had the opportunity to serve their communities—and to inspire others through a special MLK Day Photo Contest. Each employee captured moments from their volunteer experience, showcasing how small acts of service can create meaningful impact.
“I’m inspired by the way our employees' teams embraced Dr. King’s life and legacy by volunteering to serve their community during the MLK Day holiday this year,” said Rebecca Owens, Aramark’s Director of Community Relations. “Their commitment to show up in a meaningful way whether through food distribution, neighborhood cleanups, or supporting families, demonstrates what service truly looks like in action. By awarding this donation to each winner’s non-profit organization of choice, we’re able to amplify their efforts and support the organizations that matter most to them.”
From neighborhood cleanups in Philadelphia, food distribution events in Mississippi, to youth mentoring and shelter support, each volunteer embodied Dr. King’s call to build a "beloved community” through empathy, action, and unity.
To recognize their contributions, Aramark invited employees to submit photos highlighting their day of service, capturing moments of joy, teamwork, and a shared commitment to giving back. In that same spirit of community impact, Aramark also encouraged MLK Day volunteers to nominate a favorite nonprofit for consideration to receive a $1,000 charitable grant. These donations will help strengthen a wide range of local initiatives, from food security and community health to education, housing support, and youth development.
Meet the Volunteers and their Work
Alison Wehr – Volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House, where she helped prepare and serve a hot breakfast to families.
Jenna Sobocinski – Volunteered with Mater Dei CYO, packaging 500 breakfast bags that were delivered to a local shelter.
M. J. Fine – Sorted donated clothing that was later distributed to community members in need.
Emily Slazer – Volunteered with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, Hands On New Orleans, and Rebuilding Together New Orleans, assisting with repairs and improvements at a local playground.
Nicolas Mendez – Decorated 100 bags filled with sandwiches and treats for the nonprofit organization Face to Face.
Joan White – Cleaned and organized shelter and storage areas, sorted essential supplies and toys, and improved inventory systems to enhance safety and efficiency at Turning Point Domestic Violence Shelter in North Carolina.
Corey Norcross – Volunteered at the VolunteerUp Legal Clinic, helping determine clients’ eligibility for expungement and preparing and filing six petitions with the court.
Janelle Fritz – Volunteered in Philadelphia to clean and maintain a local community park for neighborhood residents.
Leigh Maida – Cleaned and restocked the community “free fridge” located at Greene Street Friends School in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia.
Adrienne Morris- Volunteered with Adopt-a-Box by cleaning, repairing, and stocking a mini-food pantry for United Way in Mississippi.
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