Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on January 18th this year. MLK Day has been a federal holiday since 1986, created to honor the civil rights leader and activist. MLK’s influential legacy kickstarted many positive changes for people of color throughout the world, inspiring everyone within society from different backgrounds, races, and ethnicities to work together to achieve racial equality.

Even during this hectic year, many different causes need your help this upcoming Monday, including local services and volunteering opportunities in the Lower Merion community. If you do volunteer, make sure to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Narberth Food Bank
The Narberth Food Bank has been working tirelessly to feed families throughout Covid-19. The Bank is looking for financial and food donations. Some of their most needed items are canned fruit, peanut butter, granola bars, vegetable stock, and other options listed on their website.

Volunteers are also in demand, specifically for packing bags and delivering them to families in need. As for safety precautions, the Narberth Food Bank is in contact with health officials and complying with the county, state, and federal government guidelines to help slow the virus spread. You can look at their website or contact them directly via email to volunteer.

Beth Am Service
There is a local day of service at Beth Am Israel, where all are welcome to honor Martin Luther King Jr. You can join on January 15th at 6 pm and January 17th at 10:30 pm through Zoom meetings. At the event, you can safely enjoy the company of others while singing, praying, and uniting in solidarity for MLK Jr. To learn more about the details, visit their website.

Educate Yourself
Learning more about MLK Day is also a beneficial use of your time on this day off from school. Listen to Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, such as the renowned “I Have a Dream” speech, read books, and watch films about civil rights and race.

Two recommendations are Angie Thomas’ The Hate You Give and Ava DuVernay’s Selma. As witnessed over the past months, racial inequality continues to persist in our society, and we all should educate ourselves and take action toward a future of justice and systemic equality.

Looking into pressing issues within your community and helping others is another way to educate yourself, whether donating food, participating in discussions about race, or helping a struggling local business.

While this year may look a little different from past years, there are still many ways that you can make a positive change. Learn from role models like Martin Luther King Jr, and keep his philosophies with you on MLK Day and every day.

Stand up for what you believe in, treat others with empathy, and give back when you can. Even Covid cannot stop us from coming together this Martin Luther King Day.