INDIANAPOLIS — On Monday, the nation will take time to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Junior's legacy.
The city of Indianapolis recognized a man Friday who is following in King's footsteps, and his actions are inspiring Indiana.
Former NFL player Emil Ekiyor received the Community Impact Award during a ceremony honoring King.
The award recognizes individuals who make outstanding contributions to the community.
Ekiyor settled in Indianapolis after his football career ended. He said when he first came to America, he was amazed by the resources and opportunities available.
He founded the nonprofit Innopower to ensure no one gets left behind.
Ekiyor called the award a "beacon of hope" as he continues serving Black communities in the U.S and in Africa.
He said his unique experiences of growing up in Africa and his journey to America give him a distinct perspective on disparities in Black communities.