"If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?"

– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, I'm reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s vision of the "beloved community"—inspired by this year's MLK Council event theme right here in Northwest Arkansas. I share words from Dr. King's powerful "mountaintop speech" and revisit stories from past guests who've shown what it looks like to choose service and love over self-interest.

You'll hear about lawyers, business owners, and nonprofit leaders across our region who saw a need and refused to look away—people helping immigrants and refugees find their footing, supporting small businesses, creating spaces for real conversation and care. The beloved community isn't just an ideal—it's being built right here, every day, by people who simply decided to act.

This episode is about hope, and it's an invitation: Who can you help today?

Key Takeaways:

1. The “beloved community” is more than a slogan—it's a call to action for everyone.
2. Dr. King's question, "What will happen to them if I do not stop to help?" inspires personal reflection and service.
3. Real stories from Northwest Arkansas show people making a difference through law, business, non-profit work, and relationships.
4. Small steps—from reaching out to a neighbor to supporting a local cause—can help build greater equity, belonging, and care.
5. The hope for a better community lives not just in speeches, but in the daily actions of ordinary people.

All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.

1. Martin Luther King, Jr. Council Annual Event
2. Nathan Bogart, Immigration Attorney (Episode 338)
3. Pedal Pops and Pedal Park: Mike Thompson & Lynn Wong (Episode 326)
4. Canopy NWA: Refugee Resettlement (Episode 319)
5. Peter Norman, CRED Legal Clinic (Episode 303)
6. Potter’s House: Shawn Schwartzman (Episode...