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Word of the Day: Service (CRC) | Give Your Time, Lift Your Community

Antonio Brown
Sep 11
2 min read

A strong community is built by people who choose to show up for one another. Service reminds us that our time, talents, and care can make a real difference: in our families, schools, barbershops, and neighborhoods.

What Does “Service” Mean?

According to Merriam-Webster, service can mean useful work or help given to others.

In everyday language, service means doing something helpful that supports the welfare of your family, school, or community. It could look like helping a younger brother read, cleaning up a shared space, encouraging a classmate, or sharing your skills with someone who needs them.

Professor Antonio helping a young Black boy choose a book in a community barbershop

The Story Behind the Word

The word service entered English through Middle English and Old French. It comes from the Latin servitium, meaning servitude or the condition of a servant or slave, from servus, meaning servant or slave.

That history matters: but it does not define the way we understand service today. Service chosen freely is strength, not servitude. It means using your power, voice, and abilities to make life better for others.

Think about the barbers who serve their neighborhoods every day. They do more than provide haircuts. They listen, mentor, welcome families, and help young people feel seen. Through CRC’s FROM THE BARBERSHOP TO THE BOARDROOM, trusted community spaces can become places where literacy, confidence, and leadership grow together.

Honoring Service on September 11

September 11 is a day when Americans honor service and sacrifice through the National Day of Service and Remembrance. We remember those who were lost, the first responders and helpers who stepped forward, and the people who continue to care for their communities.

One meaningful way to honor community is to serve others with kindness, courage, and purpose.

Service supports success and builds community because giving your time and talent to others earns trust, strengthens neighborhoods, and turns readers into leaders.

Professor Antonio organizing books and community materials with a Black teenage boy

Today’s Challenge

Choose one helpful action before the day ends:

  • Help someone at home without being asked.

  • Read with a younger child for 10 minutes.

  • Pick up litter in a shared space.

  • Encourage someone who is having a hard day.

  • Offer your skills, time, or attention where they are needed.

Small actions can create remarkable ripples.

Parent and Caregiver Prompt

Ask your young reader:

“What is one way you can serve our family, school, or community this week: and how might that action help someone else feel supported?”

Then share one example of service from your own life. Your story can help your child see that leadership is not only about being in charge. It is also about being dependable, generous, and willing to help.

Professor Antonio giving a confident thumbs-up beside a Black young boy holding a book

The Takeaway

Service is strength in action. When you give your time, lift someone else, and help your community grow, you are practicing leadership.

Learn more about CRC and get involved in literacy and community-centered opportunities for young people and families.

Follow substantive updates from The Competitive Readers Coalition on LinkedIn.

Give your time. Lift your community. Let your service speak.

 
 
 

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