Monday, January 15, 2024 commemorates the life and legacy of influential civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. This federal holiday is a day off school or work for many โ however, is supposed to be โa day on, not a day off.โ We encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the progress made and the road that lies ahead, as well as take advantage of the opportunity to participate in the National Day of Service.
Here are some impactful ways to contribute to positive change right in your community:
Volunteer at your local food bank: Dr. King found it unacceptable for there to be hunger, once stating, โWhy should there be hunger and deprivations in any land, in any city, at any table when the man has the resources and the scientific know-how to provide all mankind with the basic necessities of life?โ If youโre unable to donate the time, making a contribution can have a great impact for families in need right in your community. Some food banks may be closed due to the federal holiday. If so, use the day to do some research and signup online to volunteer any day of the year.
Deliver meals and groceries to seniors and homeless: Do some research and discover organizations, senior centers, public housing facilities, and/or families that are struggling to put food on the table. Some of these vulnerable people are unable to travel to a food bank and receiving these items directly will make a huge impact. Want to amplify your impact even more? Call a local school and ask if you can pay the lunch debt of students.
Support a black-owned business: Support a BIPOC brand, shop, or cause you care about. Thereโs many ways you can support businesses of color or causes that advocate for human rights โ whether itโs through a purchase, donation, or participating in a campaign or event. Go the extra mile and write a positive review or share on social media to increase your impact.
Empower your co-workers: Organize a volunteerism initiative or group at your workplace. Or, develop a project that features the voices of those who have faced discrimination or highlights the work of employeesโ volunteerism or advocacy in the community. If you donโt receive MLK day off, perhaps advocate for your employer to create a day of service for employees.
Collect clothing, toys, eyeglasses, and books: Gather your gently used clothing, toys, eyeglasses, books, and other household items and get creative with where you donate them. Rather than leaving at a donation bin, do some research and find a cause that resonates with you that you can amplify the impact of. With the items you collect, consider donating to community places that are often overlooked, like shelters, assisted living, or jails.
โEveryone can be great because everybody can serve.โ โ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. To learn more about our involvement in the community, please visit www.PennCommunityBank.com.
