Giving Back Some Brotherly Love: It’s That Time Again

Mid-January means Martin Luther King Day, which means it’s time to live that dream of yours (or perhaps just a resolution) and volunteer in our fine city. The 13th Annual MLK National Day of Service will be celebrated this weekend around the region. The day grew out of national legislation aiming to create a day of citizen action in honor of Dr. King’s work. It’s still growing, as more and more folks decide to put their skills and energy to good use while honoring the legacy of one of the greatest civil rights activists.

There are dozens and dozens of ways to get involved, and if you don’t see something that immediately strikes your fancy you can make something up yourself. United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania is still accepting registration both for volunteers and for projects. That house belonging to that nice elderly woman down the block looking a little shabby? Propose that you and your neighbors repair the porch and stairs, and help weatherize the windows. If you like surprises, United Way will match you with a service project based on your geographic preferences; you can sign up here. Greater Philadelphia Cares is also sponsoring a host of service projects; their MLK Day: Day of Reflection, Lifetime of Action involves not only the projects themselves but workshops about volunteering and time to reflect upon the service project and Dr. King’s legacy. They will match you with a project according to your stated preference, neighborhood, or date. Possibilities include fighting blight, reducing hunger, working with children, and eliminating the digital divide. Use their “Count Us In” form to sign up or send them an email. When you take a break, head down to the National Liberty Museum (321 Chestnut) where they are offering free admission on Monday from 10AM-5PM; you can watch a big screen broadcast of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, and get a free “No-Hate” button.

Work for the Man and don’t have off on Monday? No problem: GPC has projects throughout the weekend, and both organizations would be happy to set you up with a project taking place at some other time.

Martin Luther King Day of Service
Saturday January 19 - Monday January 21
Various locations in Philadelphia and beyond

United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania
215-665-2475

Greater Philadelphia Cares
215-564-4544

Image Credit: the National Archives via pingnews.com