The Richmond Hill Martin Luther King Observance Committee (RHMLKOC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the life, legacy, and principles of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Our committee is comprised of passionate community volunteers who work year-round to promote unity, service, and education within Richmond Hill and surrounding areas.
Through meaningful programs, community gatherings, and commemorative events, we strive to uplift Dr. King’s message of justice, equality, and compassion for all. Our work ensures his vision continues to inspire generations to come.

ABOUT US

“When We Stand Together, We Rise Together.” — Unknown

Our Mission

The mission of the Richmond Hill Martin Luther King Observance Committee (RHMLKOC) is to honor the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by promoting unity, education, and community service. We strive to inspire civic engagement, advance equity, and create meaningful opportunities for reflection, learning, and connection within our community.

Our Vision

Empowering, Educating, and Inspiring personal and societal transformation within the diverse community of Richmond Hill and surrounding communities to create one sound, one heartbeat by promoting equality for All people

Leadership

Shirlonda Shepard ( President )

is a native of Georgia and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS), and Certified Addiction Counselor II (CACII). She is a devoted wife to Clyde Shepard and mother of one son. Shirlonda is the owner of True North & Associates LLC, where she provides professional counseling and behavioral health services. She is the current president of the Nu Mu Sigma Hinesville Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and a member the Coastal GA Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). Additionally, she serves as newly elected Vice President of the Hinesville Area National Pan-Hellenic Council. Throughout her career, Shirlonda has contributed her time and talents to numerous committees, ministries, and community initiatives, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and community empowerment.

Elisha Boyd ( Vice President )

is married to Sr. Pastor Daniel Boyd and serves by his side as Co-Pastor of Emmanuel Christian Church (ECC) in Richmond Hill. She also serves as Women of Wisdom Leader for the Women Ministry. Elisha Boyd is a founding member of the first Richmond Hill Martin Luther King Jr. Parade planning Committee serving as the Lead for the Parade Participation/Line up Committee member. She has served as a booster club member for the Richmond Hill High School Lady Wildcats and Lady Legacy AAU basketball team and a volunteer at The Pregnancy Care Center and is currently serving in community support groups such as the Family Promise, NAACP of Bryan County. She also is the founder of Kingdom Women a non-profit organization birth to unite local pastor wives and women for the common goal of advancing God’s Kingdom. Elder Boyd served 13 years in the United States Army and is a combat veteran served in South West Asia Desert Storm and Desert Farewell. Elisha received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Columbia College in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources. In May of 2017 she earned her Master of Arts in Human Services, with a concentration in Military Resiliency Counseling from Liberty University. She is a certified Professional Life Coach and published author. She shares the same primary focus as her husband, making sure that a “Christian” voice and presence is always represented. Meeting individual and community needs.