In 1983, legislation was signed creating a federal holiday marking the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading the effort.
Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is a “day on, not a day off.” It calls for Americans to work together to provide solutions to national problems.
King believed in a nation of freedom and justice for all and encouraged all citizens to live up to the purpose and potential of America by applying the principles of nonviolence to make the country a better place to live.
On MLK Day of Service, Americans can celebrate King through service projects that strengthen communities, empower individuals, bridge barriers, and create solutions.
To get involved, go to the Search for Volunteer Opportunities page on the Corporation for National and Community Service website to locate a volunteer opportunity in your community. You can also plan your own project.
