The MLK Day of Service this January 17th might look a bit different, but it’s still a day to give back and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his work for the civil rights movement. We’ve gathered some socially-distanced ways that you can still get involved locally and beyond. Overall, it’s a day to do good. No matter how you decide to serve, we hope you get a chance to help build up our communities.
- Make an online donation to your local NAACP chapter toward their mission “to ensure the political, educational, equality of minority group citizens of states and eliminate race prejudice”. Search your local chapter directly to ensure they receive their donation (Paducah McCracken County NAACP).
- Donate books to local “free library” boxes in your community. Search the Little Free Library World Map to find one near you.
- Support your favorite local or regional museum or non-profit through donation or membership.
- Fill up food boxes to donate to a local food pantry or local blessings box.
- Make and donate blankets to a local humane society or animal shelter. Some shelters also have an online wish list if you would like to make an online donation or make a direct donation to a shelter. The Kentucky Humane Society has an online wish list, and local shelters can be found as well.
- Pick up trash along your road or in a public space.
- Donate blankets to a local warming station.
- Write cards/letters and mail to a local nursing home.
- Donate money or items to the Murray State Racers Challenge from 10 to 2 at the Curris Center overhang.
- Join a Murray State’s virtual MLK Celebration at 9am.
- Make a donation to tornado relief in Western Kentucky.
- Dedicate time to learning more about MLK Day and share with others!
For more ideas of service, visit Americorps Volunteer Search to find many local opportunities.
