Want to serve on MLK day (and beyond)?
Many of us have the day off for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, but, as it's widely recognized as a day of service, it's considered a "day on."
Volunteerism is a great way to honor MLK's legacy. So, here are some ways you can give back on Monday, and throughout the year.
AmeriCorps volunteer opportunities
AmeriCorps has a searchable database of volunteer opportunities with organizations like Idealist, Just Serve, California Volunteers, MENTOR, and the National Park Service. Just type in your zipcode and tick the "MLK" box to find opportunities in your area.
Volunteer with the Climate Justice Alliance
The Climate Justice Alliance is a coalition of 74 urban and rural communities that are committed to addressing the racial and economic inequities of climate change. In other words, an organization MLK would proudly support. Donate money, host a dinner party or even sign up for a 1-year fellowship with the Climate Justice Alliance.
Transcribe historical documents
Here's a nice work from home opportunity. Be a Smithsonian digital volunteer and help make historical documents and biodiversity data more accessible.
Save the date! Join us for the #MotherTongue2022 Film Festival, free and online from February 17 to March 4, 2022. This year, we reflect on the legacies of our ancestors as foundations for the futures we create.
— Recovering Voices (@RecoverVoices) January 12, 2022
Learn more: https://t.co/eQ98tSBmzt pic.twitter.com/G4bofo9Dd9
Support the Equal Justice Initiative
The EJI is committed to ending mass incarceration, racial injustice, and excessive punishment. Among many other things, they provide legal representation to people who were illegally convicted or unfairly sentenced. There are many ways to support the EJI. You can learn about the history of racial injustice, host an educational event, or if you're in Alabama, visit the EJI Legacy Museum in Montgomery.
Work with the National Urban League
The National Urban League "promotes economic empowerment through education and job training, housing and community development, workforce development, entrepreneurship, health, and quality of life." You can support the NUL by donating money or joining a local affiliate.
Do some good
There are many ways to serve on MLK day and beyond, including volunteering at an animal shelter, making a hygiene kit for the homeless or reading to senior citizens.
Whatever you decide to do, do it with purpose and passion.
As MLK once said, “Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”
Happy MLK Day!