Civic Engagement: MLK Day of Service
Community Service Opportunities in Western Massachusetts
Follow King’s model by helping to create a more resilient, dynamic, diverse, and compassionate community in Western Massachusetts through meaningful community-based service. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community. The www.nationalservice.gov/mlkday website is a great resource for learning more about this national service and Martin Luther King Jr.’s commitment to civic engagement and social change.
There are many service-based learning opportunities that honor Dr. King’s work and lasting impact on our country. You can check our list of Weekly Suggested Events for service-based learning events this year or contact local community colleges, animal shelters, land trusts, and food banks to learn about opportunities for community service on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Also check online at www.allforgood.org.
Here is a short list of local non-profits and organizations that value volunteer work:
Food Security
- Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture in South Deerfield.
- The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts in Hatfield.
- Grow Food Northampton in Northampton.
Education & Literacy
- Center for New Americans in Northampton.
- Juntos Collaborative in Holyoke.
- Springfield Public Library in Springfield.
Land Conservation
- Franklin Land Trust in Shelburne Falls.
- Hilltown Land Trust in Ashfield.
- Kestrel Land Trust in Amherst.
- Mass Audubon, Statewide.
- The Trustees, Statewide.
- Wild & Scenic Westfield River in Huntington.
Download our Jan/Feb edition of Learning Ahead: Cultural Itinerary for Western Massachusetts for embedded learning opportunities found in cultural resources that exist within the geography, history, and cultural traditions of Western Massachusetts.