Residents of the city of Willard came together over the weekend to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the value of cultural diversity.

First Baptist Church of Willard, the Willard Community Diversity Council and the Willard Area Ministerial Association hosted the annual program at Grace United Methodist Church at 108 W. Maple St.
 
Grace United Methodist Church Rev. Ricky Branham said each year the achievements and goals of diversity acceptance and awareness by celebrating the life of Dr. King.

This year's featured speaker was Linda Briggs. Briggs who reflected on the dreams, hopes, and goals of Dr. King.
 

The commeration program also included presentations of winners of the Sixth Grade Essay Contest. 
The essay topic was "What issue do you feel strongly enough to take a stand?"

Rev. Branham said two awards were presented during the program recognizing a local business and resident for their efforts to promote diversity and human rights in the Willard community. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award was presented to local business R.R. Donnelley and resident Nancy Elridge.