16 Ways to Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 16th
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16 Ways to Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 16th

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January 16, 2016

Each year, on the third Monday of January, we celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While many of us have the day off work, for the past 20+ years, we have been encouraged to see Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a “day on,” or a day to be of service in our community. 

Here are 16 simple ways you can celebrate the legacy of Dr. King on January 16th:

  1. Sign up to be a volunteer.
  2. Donate from your desk. Visit your favorite cause’s website and give them an extra gift to help them further their mission.
  3. Cook a meal for a new mom or someone going through a rough time.
  4. Deliver flowers or treats to a nursing home in your neighborhood.
  5. Clean out your home or closet and donate items to a local shelter.
  6. Leave an extra tip and nice note for a great server.
  7. Let someone in your lane while driving (they are probably in a rush like you are!).
  8. Send an email or a letter to a soldier.
  9. Pick up litter you see on the sidewalk.
  10. Run a supply drive with your work group, friends or congregation.
  11. Buy coffee for a co-worker or for the person behind you in line at the coffee shop.
  12. Encourage your child to donate gently used toys, and share the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with them.
  13. Buy books for a child in your life or donate books to a local book drive.
  14. Feed the parking meter for the person who parks after you.
  15. Shovel the sidewalk or driveway for a neighbor.
  16. Throw a “Community Baby Shower” or “Community Birthday Party” where guests bring gifts to donate to local non-profit agencies.

We would love to hear how you are celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day! Share your service in the comments below.

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