OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian announced the 2026 recipients of the annual Martin Luther King Community Service Awards on Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Dr. Constance Pritchard, Sister Joelle Thren and Jennifer Shirk will be honored. Each year, the awards recognize volunteer activity and service to the Ocean City community in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Among other service, Dr. Pritchard has led the volunteer English Language Learning program at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church for more than 20 years. Sister Joelle has served St. Damien Parish for more than 25 years and leads many intergenerational education and service programs for Ocean City residents. Jen Shirk has been a tireless volunteer with many community organizations, including the Ocean City Community Wellness Alliance, the Ocean City Free Public Library, the Ocean City Education Foundation and the Ocean City Exchange Club.
Ocean City will celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, Jan. 19, and the program will include much more on each of these exemplary citizens.
“One of the things that makes Ocean City so special is the number of people who want to give back to our community,” Gillian said. “This year’s recipients are perfect examples of that community spirit, and I’m looking forward to celebrating all of their achievements.”
The Jan. 19 ceremony will start at noon at the Ocean City Tabernacle. The event brings the community together to remember Dr. King through words, song and dance. The ceremony will be followed by a complimentary soul food buffet luncheon.
One of the highlights is always the recitation of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
Students from grades seven and eight at the Ocean City Intermediate School will be honored for their winning essays on the influence of Dr. King.
Volunteers invited to
Day of Service
Volunteers are invited to join others nationwide in a Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 19 to honor Dr. King’s contributions. Citizens are asked to participate in a citywide cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon. Sign-up and supply distribution will take place at the Henry Knight Building (115 E. 12th Street).
essays on the influence of Dr. King.
Volunteers are invited to join others nationwide in a Day of Service on Jan. 19 to honor Dr. King’s contributions. Citizens are asked to participate in a citywide cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon with registration and supply and distribution at the Henry Knight Building at 115 E. 12th St.