3 Ways to Serve Your Community This MLK Day of Service

Published On: January 12th, 2023By Categories: Community Support2 min read

The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is one of service. As his birthday approaches, we invite San Diegans to honor that legacy by giving back to the community. There are many ways to make a difference. Here are three ways to honor Dr. King’s legacy for MLK Day of Service 2023.

1. Volunteer

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, or MLK Day, is the only federal holiday designated a National Day of Service. The U.S. Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Civil Rights encourages everyone to make it a “day on, not a day off” by participating in service activities. There are many opportunities for donating your time, including volunteering at Feeding San Diego. Sign up for a shift today or apply to be a skills-based volunteer.

Volunteers hand produce to a man attending a Feeding San Diego Produce pantry

Volunteers distribute food at a Feeding San Diego produce pantry

2. Learn about the importance of equity in ending hunger

Hunger in America exists partly due to systemic issues that prevent people, especially people of color, from accessing nutritious food. According to Feeding America, hunger doesn’t affect everyone equally. Some groups, like children, seniors, Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, face hunger at much higher rates. Take some time today to learn about the importance of inclusive democracy and how Feeding America and hunger-relief organizations in their network, like Feeding San Diego, are working to ensure everyone has access to the food they need.

3. Register to vote

Your vote can have a significant impact on whether or not people have access to nutritious food. You can help decide the future of programs that provide food access and advocate for lawmakers to prioritize ending hunger. Start by checking your registration status. Then, find out how you can become a hunger-relief advocate.

Take Action for MLK Day of Service

These are just a few actions you can take to celebrate MLK Day. However, we invite you to honor Dr. King’s legacy every day by volunteering, learning, and advocating for your community. Ending hunger is an ambitious goal, and we all have a part to play. Whether you sign up for a volunteer shift or donate to support rescuing surplus food for people facing hunger, you can make a difference in your community. Small actions have a ripple effect in making the world a better place. Find out more about how to get involved with ending hunger in San Diego County.