Martin Luther King day has been a designated day of service for 15 years. But in 2009 inspired by President Obama’s inauguration, the number of recorded service projects increased to 13000 from 8000 in 2008. And it is estimated that 1 million people participated in a volunteer project that day. On one level – Wow! On another level – only 1 million – surely we can do better than that.
It is incredibly easy to find a volunteer opportunity for MLK Day. You can even do it from your iPhone or Blackberry. The MLK Day website has everything you need to know about Martin Luther King day and you can link to Serve.gov to find the type of project you are interested in close to work or home.
Some Easy ideas for Service on MLK Day – No Excuses
If MLKDay is a work day for you why not see if your employer is willing to sponsor an early quit for a group who volunteers at a local charity or lead a food or winter coat drive at your workplace. It is a good day for group activities and lots of nonprofits are prepared with one day or short timeframe projects.
Nonprofits Take Action – Now!! Today!! – MLK Day is January 18th!!!
If you are a nonprofit - right now – not tomorrow – register your projects available for MLKDay at serve.gov and at any local databases collecting projects such as your local Volunteer Center or United Way. This is a perfect opportunity to introduce your organization to new volunteers and supporters. The projects do not have to be elaborate. Onsite projects like painting a room, cleaning out and organizing closets are popular projects. Don’t pass up opporunities for after work groups to come for an hour or sponsor food or clothing drives at their workplace. Are you an arts group? Do you need some help working on making sets – a great after work project.
Why not have a “Need Professional Skills” project and ask for help with your website, marketing materials or social media launch. Or how about resume writing and interview coaching at homeless shelters.
It is free and easy to register your projects. You never know - the perfect person may show up on a cold winter morning and begin a lasting relationship. This opportunity is to good to pass up.
Ready for a Little Inspiration?
But this all sounds so mechanical and practical – If you need a little inspiration to get moving with setting up projects and volunteering visit the King center website and you’ll be greeted by an inspirational message in Dr. King’s own words.
King Center website
This video on YouTube provides a kalidescope of last year’s projects – view it to get inspired about what ideas may work for you.
2009 King Day of Service: Realizing the Dream
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