Established as a federal holiday in 1983, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was designated a National Day of Service by Congress in 1994. In different states, various organizations and volunteer groups have planned this day for you to volunteer in communities, mentor a youth, assist a senior, learn more about creating peace, and create a space to have discussions on the issues of race, poverty and injustices today.There are holiday breakfasts planned in several cities as an opportunity to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy of service and to be inspired to live out his dream today and throughout the year in our homes, the community and in the world.
“Selma for Students” is a campaign that has raised enough money to allow hundreds of thousands of American middle and high school students to see the movie Selma for free. This is an opportunity for young people to learn more about their history, civic engagement and hope that systemic change is possible through cooperative, intentional and well-planned efforts.
You can find more information on volunteering in your state and community by going to the MLK Day of Service website or check locally in your church or community for volunteer opportunities you can participate in today and throughout the year.
Every action counts and goes a long way toward helping others. So whether you mentor a child, help the hungry or volunteer at a shelter, you are a part of building peace and unity within the local and global communities. How are you taking a meaningful action in your community today?
Eva James Yeo is director for membership.