Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'" Each year, Americans across the country answer that question by coming together on the King Holiday to serve their neighbors. "MLK Day" is a chance to start the year off right by making an impact in our communities.
In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service. Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the annual theme for this federal holiday is "Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On, Not a Day Off!!"
August 28, 2013 marked the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington where Dr. King delivered his renowned "I Have A Dream" speech and this year's holiday is a perfect opportunity for Americans to honor Dr. King's legacy through service. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, breaks down barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King's vision of a beloved community.
Making time to volunteer is a great way to engage with your community while honoring the legacy of Dr. King. Whether you plan on grabbing a paintbrush, mentoring a young person, or helping to clean up a public space, know that what you do makes a world of difference. For more information about the MLK Day of Service and what's taking place across the country, visit www.MLKDay.gov.
