A Day of Service for MLK

Monday, January 19, will mark Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The day, celebrated annually on the third Monday in January, remembers the late Dr. King, a nonviolent activist in the Civil Rights Movement, around his birthday on January 15.

One of King’s lessons was “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'” In honor of that, many spend the day doing for others and utilize the day off as a day of service. Locally, there will be a few ways to volunteer.

On Monday, January 19 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Far Rock Greek Council, the Rockaway YMCA and Queens Community Justice Center are teaming up for an MLK Day of Service event where they’ll be giving away clothes, food, hygiene products and essential items to those in need at Beach 20th Street Plaza (1037 Beach 20th Street) in Far Rockaway. Those looking to volunteer to help with the event should arrive at 11:30 a.m. This event is also sponsored by Rock the Block Foundation, the B.R.I.D.G.E. FEC and the CDAC.

NYC Parks is also offering ways to volunteer on Monday with park cleanups. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., volunteers can head to the Shore Front Labyrinth at Beach 94th Street and Shore Front Parkway to clean up the area. Another option is to help clean up O’Donohue Park at Beach 17th Street and Seagirt Avenue from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All tools and supplies including gloves will be provided for both cleanups. Please wear sturdy footwear, dress warmly and bring a water bottle. Both opportunities are open to volunteers ages 5 and older.