Martin Luther King, Jr. Community-Wide Day of Service

Volunteers read to students at El Sol Elementary School

The City of Kalamazoo sponsors a community-wide day of service every January to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The event takes place on Martin Luther King Day on the third Monday of January. Social service organizations throughout Kalamazoo County share opportunities for volunteers to take a "day on" instead of a day off. Thousands of volunteers celebrate Dr. King by living his values in service to their community and others. Gryphon Place helps connect volunteers with service opportunities for the day of service and throughout the year. 

View Volunteer Opportunities

Following the day of service, a ceremony will be held at Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park at 507 N Rose St. Attendees will meet at the Metro Transit Building across the street at 3:45 p.m. and walk through the park before gathering for a ceremony at approximately 4:15 p.m. Mayor David Anderson will speak alongside leadership from WMU and KVCC.

Social Justice Youth Awards

The City of Kalamazoo also recognizes youth that are living the values of Dr. King through service and leadership. Social Justice Youth Awards are presented by the City Commission at its meeting on January 22. Learn more about the awards here

When

  • Monday, January 15, 2024 | 08:00 AM - 06:00 PM