The Center for Energy Education will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Thursday by recognizing the role of community service among members of the Roanoke Valley community.

The event begins at 10 a.m. at the center’s Roanoke Rapids campus located at 460 Airport Road.

The center welcomes students, elected officials, community leaders and the public to showcase and keep alive Dr. King’s dream of unity by recognizing Roanoke Valley residents who exemplify his character, and the virtues he taught around love, peace and justice.

C4EE will honor area volunteers dedicated to leading, building and improving their communities through a range of service activities. The commemoration is free and open to the public.

“Dr. King lives in the hearts of our honorees,” said Mozine Lowe, executive director of C4EE. “These individuals are advocates who strive daily to educate those around us to the importance — and a commitment toward — a more just future.”