MLK Day, observed this year on January 17th, is a day dedicated to service and celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy. As the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, we’re providing you with some inspiration to get out and serve!
- Start a Service Project
If there’s a cause you’re passionate about, now’s the time to get involved! Not sure where to begin? Volunteer Match offers resources to find service projects near you. You can also sign up for Operation Warm’s Community Partnership Program that allows you to gift brand-new coats and shoes to children in your own community.
- Clean Up Your Neighborhood
One simple way to give back is by cleaning up the community. Get a group together and pick up trash at a local park, or rake leaves around your neighborhood.
- Register to Vote
As a civil rights leader, one of the best ways to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy is by making sure you’re registered to vote if you’re able to do so.
- Volunteer at an Animal Shelter
If you’re passionate about helping animals, call your local animal shelter and see if they’re looking for volunteers to walk, clean, or feed the animals they are supporting.
- Donate Items to Those in Need
A new year calls for cleaning out. Whether it’s gently used clothes, household items, or sports equipment - consider donating them to a local charity.
- Send a Card to a Frontline Worker
Over the last two years, our frontline workers have been doing everything they can to support us. Show your appreciation by creating cards. Not sure what to say? Check out our blog post, 25 Messages to Say Thanks to Frontline Workers.
- Package Meals for the Homeless
Dedicate an hour (or more!) to packaging meal kits for people who are not able to access meals otherwise. Find a local shelter.
- Shovel a Neighbor's Driveway
If you live in a cold climate, pay it forward when it snows by shoveling some of your neighbor’s driveways.
- Become a Tutor
Strong in a certain subject? Put up flyers and tutor students in your community who could use the help.
- Make a Donation to Charity
Not everyone has time to dedicate to service this time of year. If you still want to help a cause that matters to you on MLK Day of Service, make a donation to your favorite charity to help them continue to serve.
