Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, when we celebrate the patriarch of the civil rights movement. Dr. King changed the world with nonviolent resistance to the injustices of his era — racial segregation, employment discrimination, and the denial of the right to vote. While much change was made because of Dr. King, these are all still rights that are being fought for today.
Ronald Reagan once had this to say about Martin Luther King Jr:
“In his own life’s example, he symbolized what was right about America, what was noblest and best, what human beings have pursued since the beginning of history. He loved unconditionally. He was in constant pursuit of truth, and when he discovered it, he embraced it. His nonviolent campaigns brought about redemption, reconciliation, and justice. He taught us that only peaceful means can bring about peaceful ends, that our goal was to create a loving community.”
Today we urge you to speak to your children about MLK Day and what it represents. Many people use this day to perform acts of service. Since 2021 is starting out a bit different than other years, we have compiled a list of volunteer opportunities that are safe for everyone.
- Donate to a Local Food Bank. Use the Feeding America website to find food banks near you. https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
- Gather your “Quaran-Team” together for an independent nature cleanup (nature trails, rivers, streams)! You can get together to pick up trash any day between January 23 – February 7. Register your team here! https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/volunteer-and-attend-events/find-local-events-and-opportunities/pennsylvania-day-of-service/?fbclid=IwAR04kqH_pnp9YsvejUqQkAqqG_7IxI4dRKyO9-J026p0CnHsN2lkcCOgdh8
- Educate your children about MLK Day and what it represents. Watch a documentary together or read a book. Here are some great resources. https://www.nbcnews.com/better/amp/ncna960351?fbclid=IwAR2Pr6DYi_wNaEkq5Eol9KRZ6VGOJmXvSgbwlpp5G5ptRwWG5LtrGdXacKw
- Pack Backpacks of Meals for Kids Fighting Hunger. Sign up here (located in Broomall) https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e054ea8ad2baa8-help4
For more local opportunities, please visit https://volunteer.globalcitizen365.org/
Everyone please remember to stay safe during all outside volunteering. This is a great day to learn, and even more important, a great day to “do”.
Keep Spreading Kindness,
Marissa