We’re Not Just Here to Remember Dr. King’s Dream—We’re Here to Live It: The Fort Wayne MLK Club with President George Hicks
By La’Crystele Brown
FWIS Contributing Writer
The Fort Wayne MLK Club, now celebrating its 40th year, is embarking on an exciting new chapter under the leadership of President George Hicks. Dedicated to promoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of equality, unity, and justice, the club is expanding its reach with new initiatives, youth programs, and a focus on collaboration with the Fort Wayne community.
Founded in 1985 by the late Glyn R. Gleason, the MLK Club has long been a pillar of civic engagement and education in Fort Wayne. Today, Hicks is building on Gleason’s vision by increasing youth involvement, fostering community partnerships, and creating opportunities to learn about the civil rights movement.
Glyn R. Gleason, founder of the Fort Wayne Martin Luther King (MLK) Jr. Club, Inc., established the organization to ensure that Dr. King’s sacrifices and vision for equality would not be forgotten. Gleason’s leadership drew national attention, hosting prominent figures such as Ben Chaney (brother of civil rights martyr James Chaney) and George Smith, who marched alongside Dr. King.
Hana Stith, curator of Fort Wayne’s African/African American History Museum, described Gleason’s work as unparalleled: “Glyn Gleason organized the very best Martin Luther King celebration in the country.” Gleason’s impact extended beyond the MLK Club. He supported organizations like the Old Fort YMCA and the Adopt-A-Family program and was an active member of the NAACP, Urban League, and Indiana Black Expo. “Glyn’s energy, compassion, and dedication are an inspiration to all of us,” Hicks said. “We are building on the foundation he laid to ensure Dr. King’s dream lives on for future generations.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia, became one of the most influential figures in American history. As a Baptist minister and civil rights leader, he dedicated his life to the fight for racial equality and justice through nonviolent activism. Dr. King’s leadership in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s led to significant achievements, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Dr. King delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March on Washington, inspiring millions with his vision of a society where people are judged by their character rather than the color of their skin. Tragically, Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, but his legacy continues to inspire movements for justice and equality worldwide. “Dr. King’s dream was about more than just equality—it was about building a world where unity, compassion, and justice prevail,” Hicks said. “That’s what we strive to honor and promote through the MLK Club.”
George Hicks, a longtime Fort Wayne resident, has dedicated much of his life to community service and youth engagement. Raised in the city, Hicks graduated from Paul Harding High School and later earned an associate degree in accounting from International Business College, bachelor’s degree in business administration from Indiana Wesleyan, and a master’s degree in human resources from Indiana Tech. For over 35 years, he has worked in the insurance industry, where his corporate role allowed him to coordinate employee engagement initiatives and partner with local organizations. “I’ve always believed in giving back to the community,” Hicks shared. “Through my work and volunteering, I’ve had the chance to engage with people from all walks of life, and it’s been incredibly rewarding.”
Hicks’s journey with the MLK Club began as a young attendee of its events. Over the years, he became more involved, first as a vendor and later as a board member in 2022. The next year, Hicks played a key role in recommending the MLK Club for recognition by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission, which honored the organization for its community impact. In 2024, Hicks was asked to step into the role of president following the 16-year leadership of Bennie and Sheryl Edwards. “I saw this as an opportunity to not only honor Dr. King’s legacy but also to help the club grow and adapt to the needs of the community.” Hicks is thankful for the opportunity to learn from the experiences of the Edwards and appreciate their leadership over the years.
The mission of The Martin Luther King (MLK), Jr. Club, Inc. is to promote and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through community activism, youth engagement, and multicultural educational activities.“Dr. King’s dream was about creating a world where children of all races could grow, learn, and play together in harmony,” Hicks said. “Our mission is to help make that vision a reality.”
Upcoming Events
Unity Day Celebration – January 20, 2025
The MLK Club’s annual Unity Day Celebration will take place on Monday, January 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Parkview MiCenter. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
This flagship event celebrates Dr. King’s life and legacy with a focus on community unity and youth engagement. Highlights include:
• Keynote Presentation: Alive Outreach Community will discuss their Peacemakers program, which teaches Dr. King’s six principles of nonviolence in local high schools.
• Scholarship Awards: Three $1,000 Glyn R. Gleason Scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors.
• Honorees: Andrea Dortch Thomas, Joe Ayres, and Ruby Bates will be recognized for their contributions to the community. Indiana Tech – Black Excellence Associates will be recognized for their contributions in the community with the President Award.
• Proclamation: On behalf of Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker, an official proclamation honoring The Martin Luther King, Jr. Club, Inc. will be read during the program.
“Unity Day is a time for the community to come together and reflect on Dr. King’s vision,” Hicks said.
Youth Engagement Events – January 17-18, 2025
Leading up to Unity Day, the club will collaborate with other organizations on other youth-focused events:
• Rosa Parks Bus Tour (January 17): Partnering with the MLK Montessori School under the leadership of Greta Mckinney, the Rosa Parks CitiLink bus will be onsite at 6001 South Anthony Blvd from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. The event will feature storyteller, Chief Condra Ridley, and a puppet show by Pastor Winston Pearson.
• 5th Annual MLK Basketball Shootout “Brothers Living The Dream” (January 18): A basketball tournament and youth skills camp, hosted by local talent Bennie Lewis, will take place at the Summit Gym 1025 W Rudisill starting at 11:30 a.m. with the last event starting at 4:30 p.m.
“These events are about more than fun—they’re about educating and inspiring the next generation,” Hicks explained.
Legacy Breakfast – April 2025 TBD
The club’s Legacy and Clergy Appreciation Breakfast will commemorate Dr. King’s passing and honor local clergy members and community leaders.
Santa Tour – December 2025
Each December, the club spreads holiday cheer through its Santa Tour, which provides toys and meals to children and families in need.
Hicks’s vision includes empowering young people through mentorship programs and creating opportunities for them to lead. Drawing from his experience as an associate pastor at New Zion Tabernacle, Hicks has worked closely with at-risk youth, particularly those in juvenile detention centers. “It’s about showing young people they’re not alone and that someone cares about their success,” Hicks said.
“In the juvenile center, young people can focus on what you’re saying because they’re away from distractions,” Hicks said. “The challenge is helping them make the right choices when they return home.”
The MLK Club is offering half-off membership through January 20, 2025. Membership options include:
• Individual Membership: $15 (normally $30)
• Youth Membership (18 and under): $5 (normally $10)
• Small Business Membership: $62.50 (normally $125)
• Church/Clergy Membership: $50 (normally $100)
• Social Organization/Nonprofit Membership: $50 (normally $100)
• Corporate Sponsorship: $1,000 (normally $2,000)
To join, visit www.mlkclubfw.com or email Hicks at president@mlkclubfw.com. “Membership isn’t just about attending events—it’s about being part of a movement,” Hicks said.
As the MLK Club celebrates its 40th anniversary, Hicks is optimistic about the future. “We’re not just here to remember Dr. King’s dream—we’re here to live it,” Hicks said. With plans for youth programs, historic tours, and increased collaboration, the club is poised to make a lasting impact on Fort Wayne and beyond. For more information about the MLK Club, its events, or how to get involved, visit www.mlkclubfw.com or contact president@mlkclubfw.com.