BREMERTON, Wash. –
More than 50 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at the March on Washington and described a "fierce urgency of now." That sentiment still rings true today. And each year when we celebrate MLK's birthday, we have the opportunity to go out into our communities and address the urgent needs he spoke about.
MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service. The purpose is to encourage all Americans to carry on Dr. King's legacy by volunteering to improve their communities. This holiday is our opportunity to recommit as citizens by volunteering in service to others. Through our efforts, we can strengthen our ties to our communities and to one another.
AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency invests more than $800 million in grants for local nonprofit, community, tribal, and state organizations; and places more than 250,000 members and volunteers in intensive service roles.
For more information about the MLK Day of Service or to find volunteer opportunities in your area, visit AmeriCorps.gov/MLKDay.