SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - For 43 years, Wesley United Methodist Church has been hosting its Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. scholarship breakfast. This event bringing students, local leaders and their families together to recognize and honor King's life and legacy and help three local seniors follow their dreams by awarding each of them a scholarship. "It's important to continue to provide scholarships and assistance to needy students who ordinarily would not be able to get into college or did not have the financial aid to finish," said Rep. Bud Williams of the 11th Hampden district. Dr. King was a Baptist minister and civil rights activist that advocated for not only racial equality, but non-violence and justice here in the U.S. All of these efforts with the goal to end violence, racial discrimination and segregation in the United States. He was also known as someone who pushed for education equality and opportunity for all. Leaders at Saturday's event say it's essential that students, including those of color, are able to learn and get a quality education where they can succeed. Pastor Taylon Lancaster told 22News, "Today really speaks to the significant contributions that faith communities and those that support Dr. King. It means so much being that this is the 43rd annual breakfast." Pastor Lancaster says it's important to inspire the youth and encourage a message of hope to live by the words and legacy of Dr. King.