On Jan. 16, in observance of the 2023 MLK Day of Service, the Houston Local Organizing Committee (HLOC) participated in beautification projects at the Julia C. Hester House and Boyce-Dorian Park in Houston’s Fifth Ward. The HLOC was joined by members of the Houston community and participants from the Host City Supporters: TDECU, Texas Children’s Hospital, Rusty Hardin & Associates, Cotton Holdings, Inc., CareSource Bayou Health, Smart Financial, Calpine Corporation, NRG, Kroger, and the Houston Rockets.
The recipient of this year’s MLK Day of Service was the Julia C. Hester House (2020 Solo St.), a local community center in the Fifth Ward celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2023. Inspired by its namesake’s dedication to children’s safety and education, the Julia C. Hester House focuses on empowering the Fifth Ward community by supporting youth development, senior services, social services and workforce development. The beautification project focused on gardening and landscaping, as well as a nearby community garden. In addition, an art project was unveiled at a basketball court at Boyce-Dorian Park. The piece, created by local artist Tay Butler, pays homage to Houston’s Fifth Ward and local community leaders.
“We are so thankful to everyone who participated in this year’s MLK Day of Service,” HLOC President Holly Kesterson said. “Thank you to Commissioner Rodney Ellis, our friends at Precinct One and our Host City Supporters for helping to make a positive impact in our community. Together, we are sparking positive change in Houston.”
The HLOC and Host City Supporters were joined by staff from the Julia C. Hester House, Harris County Precinct One and community volunteers. Bridgette Dorian, daughter of Boyce-Dorian Park namesake Louis Dorian and Founding Member and President of the 5th Ward Chamber of Commerce, was joined at the event by her mother, Bertha, her brother, Tyrone, and his wife, Lillie.
“The Julia C. Hester House and Boyce-Dorian Park are staples in the Fifth Ward community, and we are truly grateful for the efforts of the Houston Local Organizing Committee, Host City Supporters and volunteers for holding their MLK Day of Service here,” Dorian said. “The landscaping projects and art installation celebrate the beauty of our community.”
