While most of us have heard of the inspiring life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK), many aren’t as aware of his continuing legacy. Celebrated on the third Monday of January each year, MLK Day is not only a day to remember the speeches and advocacy of this civil rights leader. It’s also the only national holiday dedicated to volunteerism, designated by the US government as a national day of service. On MLK day, we can all carry on Dr. King’s legacy by working to improve our communities.
If you’re in the Portland area and would like to find a service project to participate in on January 15, there are ample local opportunities. SOLVE Oregon has compiled a list of projects in Portland, West Linn, Hillsboro, and Vancouver, which you can find here. EverOut has also put together a list of service projects and events honoring Dr King’s life. These events have not been sponsored or vetted by LifeWorks NW, so please use your own discretion to decide if they are appropriate for you or your family.
If you would like to learn more about Dr. King’s life and work, including his efforts to desegregate public transportation and schools, you can read more about him here.
We wish all of our staff, clients and community members a happy holiday and we hope this day serves as a reminder that each and every one of us has the power to change our world for the better.