Photo Credit: The Seattle Times
Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'”In the past two years, the need has been immense for every cause area: from food security to homelessness —education to mental health. Meanwhile, the threat of the virus has prevented volunteerism from returning to its pre-pandemic highs. This year, we can change that.
In partnership with Americorps, VolunteerMatch encouraged nonprofits to post opportunities that would be easily accessible with the hashtag #MLK. This Martin Luther King Day, answer the question, "What are you doing for others?" by volunteering. Don't know where to start? Here are 5 virtual, or safely-distanced, opportunities:
1. #MLK Social Justice Story Time: Racial Justice and Taking Action (Virtual)
Encourage your kids to learn more about race and racial justice with Kids Impact Community and stories that celebrate differences and recognize similarities. At the end, you can even make a bookmark to donate to Next Door’s Books for Kids program!
2. Hold a Coat Drive with One Warm Coat #MLK (Socially-Distanced)
Gently-used coats make a world of difference to those who don’t have them. Team up with One Warm Coat and host a coat drive with your friends, family, and community.
3. #MLK National Day of Service - Youth Mental Health Event (Virtual)
Learn clinically vetted coping skills to support young people's mental health with Crisis Text Line’s Martin Luther King Day event, 'United We Serve for Youth Mental Health!.’
4. #MLK Day Small Business Hackathon (Virtual)
Use your professional experience to help by attending the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership’s Martin Luther King Day Hackathon. As a volunteer, you can help review business owners’ websites and UX.
5. #MLK Virtual Volunteer Tutor (no prior experience required)
Offer academic support with Step Up Tutoring to improve student success in under-resourced communities.
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Find #MLK opportunities near you
For nonprofits: If you are looking to feature your MLK service opportunities, use #MLK in your description on VolunteerMatch and be seen not only on our site but on Americorps' as well!
