Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a nationally recognized Day of Service. Think of it as “a day on, not a day off.” Let’s make it a priority to walk the walk and honor the legacy of Dr. King this month (and always!). If you need ideas, have a look at these local opportunities to volunteer with kids.
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January 5 – 31 :: 2025 I Have a Dream 1M, 10K, 13.1, 26.2 :: Virtual
A portion of every registration fee (15%) will be donated to the Equal Justice Initiative dedicated to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States. Runners receive a bib, a medal featuring a quote from Dr. King, and the honor of progressing social justice and equality.
January 10 – 18 :: MLK Celebration Week :: Dallas
This is the 43rd year of celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. in Dallas with a week of events focused on community, opportunity, and equity. The week starts with a candle lighting ceremony on Friday, January 10, at 7:00 p.m., and ends with the MLK parade on Saturday, January 18, at 10:00 a.m. Events throughout the week include a scholarship and awards gala, job fair, equity indicators symposium, MLK fest, multicultural showcase, and a day of reflection and prayer.
January 11 :: Villanova Club of DFW Day of Service :: Plano
This is a hands-on opportunity for families with teens. Help the staff of Minnie’s Food Pantry load client vehicles (Minnie’s serves via drive thru), prepare cold bags, stock shelves, sort items, and prepare boxes. Register online. Service hours are 7:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
>> RELATED READ :: Volunteering with Kids in Denton County for MLK Day of Service <<
January 19 :: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration & Service Fair :: Rowlett
The city of Rowlett is hosting a volunteer and service fair, bringing together local organizations, passionate speakers, and opportunities for families to get involved in meaningful ways. The fair will take place at Rowlett Community Centre from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
January 20 :: MLK Day of Service :: Grapevine
Register your family to volunteer with Grapevine Parks and Recreation. Projects include litter pickup in parks and green spaces, plus general beautification projects. Service hours are 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
>> RELATED READ :: Where to Volunteer on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service in Tarrant County <<
Date TBD
Frisco Day of Service | Frisco
The week before Frisco’s Unity Day, community members are invited to bring canned goods to city hall. All donations will support the clients of Frisco Family Services. The week culminates in a celebration with food, jazz, and gospel performances.
Date TBD
Winter Coat Drive | McKinney
Get your friends and neighbors involved! Love Life Foundation is collecting new and gently worn coats for children and adults in need. Drop off donations at the Brandon Tomes Volkswagen showroom. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the Love Life bug before you leave!
>> RELATED READ :: Volunteering with Kids in Dallas for MLK Day of Service <<
More Ways to Volunteer . . .
The Ronnia Langston Foundation is a local organization in need of youth (ages 16 and up) and adult volunteers to help support its mission of positive youth development. Fill out an online application to volunteer for community service projects, mentoring, and more.
Points of Light Global Network runs Engage, a platform for connecting community members with volunteer opportunities. Enter your zip code at the link to find a variety of volunteer opportunities.
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JustServe helps connect you with organizations like the International Rescue Committee, Lovepacs, All Community Food Pantry in Allen, Samaritan Inn in McKinney, Grace Bridge Food Bank in Celina, and other local groups doing great work. You can even search for virtual volunteer opportunities.
Are you involved with any youth groups, scouts, dance teams, athletics, etc.? Plan your own service project with the help of AmeriCorp. Use these volunteer project ideas and tips to get started. You can even register your project for greater visibility. Be sure to use #MLKDay when you register so volunteers can find your event!
On that note, Youth Service America has an MLK Day of Service hub that’s FULL of resources to help you create projects and get kids engaged.
>> RELATED READ :: Explaining MLK Day to Kids :: 3 Life Lessons from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Life & Legacy <<
