Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983. Each year it is observed on the third Monday of January. Fun fact: the song “Happy Birthday” by Stevie Wonder, along with a petition containing six million signatures helped make it a federal holiday. In 1994 legislation was signed into law making it a national day of service. The legislation proposed that each citizen honor Dr. King by giving back to their communities and participating in activities that exemplify the ideals that he fought and died for. It doesn’t matter whether you volunteer, donate, or give back, as long as you get moving this Martin Luther King Jr. Day!
Get Moving: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
There are plenty of ways to volunteer all over America. One of my favorite ways to give back is to participate in a food drive. This can be done through food banks or any number of ways. You can start your own! Martin Luther King was an advocate of not only equal rights, but equal opportunities for everyone. Take some time out of your day and donate to one of your favorite organizations.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Day of Service
Another great way to get involved is to participate in your city’s day of service celebrations. Help build a house, take a ride on the DoGood Community Bus, or donate to one of my favorite charitable organizations. Each act of service is valued no matter how small. People always appreciate a kind hand.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Beautification
Helping out doesn’t just mean helping our fellow humans. We can help out in other ways too. We can help restore our beautiful forests and oceans. We can cleanup highways and city streets. Plant more trees, volunteer at recycling centers, or even start a community garden! There are several beach cleanups and community enrichment projects taking place over the weekend and throughout the month of January. Citywide beautification is a popular way to honor Dr. King in many areas.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Community Enrichment
It doesn’t matter whether you live in a small town or a big city, every town could always use some community enrichment. All over the country people are getting together to help make their community a better place. Instead of throwing away old clothes and shoes, donate clothes to your local Salvation Army. Help out a local animal shelter. Show your support by participating in a community march or parade. See how people are celebrating the life of Martin Luther King Jr. all across America.
How will you participate this Martin Luther King Jr. Day? Tell me about it in the comments section below!