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MLK Events 2025

We honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his federal holiday by uniting in celebration and service. We've listed volunteer activities that community partners are hosting, along with other events that are facilitated both online and in-person in honor of his legacy. 


Volunteer Activities:
 

Please visit our Project Calendar to view projects on January 20th and throughout the week: https://www.handsonportland.org/calendar

Including: 

MLK Day of Service and Fundraiser (age 6+) Referral
Dr. Martin Luther King Junior dedicated his life to advancing civil rights and fighting racism and oppression. To honor his legacy, Johnson Creek Watershed Council will be fundraising for BIPOC led organizations working for racial justice and leading a habitat enhancement event at Powell Butte.

Serve Together: MLK Day of Service with L'Arche Portland (all ages) Referral
This is a family-friendly volunteer opportunity, open to all ages and abilities. We’ll have both indoor and outdoor options, including yard maintenance, indoor painting of core member’s rooms, window washing, organizing, house projects, and spending time with core members. Whether you’re working on a project or simply being present with our community, your time and compassion help build a more inclusive, loving world.

Join us in honoring Dr. King’s vision by supporting individuals with disabilities in our community, lifting each other up, and strengthening the bonds that make us all stronger together.

Unity in Service: MLK Day Cleanup (age 7+) Referral
Join us for a meaningful day of service at Irving Park as we honor Dr. King’s legacy through a community litter cleanup. This event is a great opportunity to give back and help beautify our neighborhood while coming together in the spirit of unity and service. By taking part in this MLK Day of Service event, you’ll be contributing to a cleaner, healthier community while honoring the values of service and equality. Let’s make a positive impact together!

MLK Day of Service Tree Planting (age 3+) Referral 
The Watershed Alliance empowers community members to protect and restore southwest Washington's waterways and natural areas for the benefit of current and future generations. We will be planting trees in Ridgefield, WA.

 

Blanchet House: Volunteer made care kits are in constant need

 

Honor the life and service of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the upcoming holiday by making care kits for the houseless. Bags containing essential items like rain ponchos, hand warmers, socks, and snacks are given out daily to our guests.

These kits are so appreciated!

Instructions at BlanchetHouse.org/care-kits.

 


Community Events:
 

World Arts Foundation Annual Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 
Keep Alive the Dream: Beyond Resilience to Empowerment

Jan 20, 2025, 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Hyatt Regency
375 NE Holladay St, Portland, OR 97232, USA

This year’s theme, Beyond Resilience to Empowerment, encapsulates our resolve and commitment to collaboratively working with our partners to develop innovative arts and education programming and opportunities for youth so that they may realize their dreams. This year’s program will feature:

  • Inspiring Speakers: Reflecting on Dr. King's enduring legacy of justice, equality, and unity.

  • Live Performances: Music and entertainment celebrating the resilience and spirit of the Civil Rights Movement.

  • Lifetime Achievement Awards: Recognizing individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact in our community.

  • Victory Village Marketplace: Highlighting local businesses, community organizations, and artists.

RSVP Here: https://www.worldartsfoundation.org/event-details/keep-alive-the-dream-beyond-resilience-to-empowerment

 

United Way of King County Martin Luther King Jr. Week: Lunch & Learn
Jan 23 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Zoom event)

Move beyond service to solidarity during Martin Luther King Jr. Week!

Don’t miss our upcoming Lunch & Learn, led by Breauna Dorelus from Connecting the Cause, Atlanta!

In this session, she’ll guide us through exploring how volunteers can embody Dr. King’s legacy by shifting from acts of service to building solidarity with communities. You’ll also learn what it means to co-dream and collaborate with the communities that we support, and how we can amplify our neighbors’ vision and create lasting change.


Sign up for the session here.

 


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