Each year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed as a federal holiday on the third Monday of January — Jan. 16 this year. The theme for this year is “Cultivating a Beloved Community Mindset to Transform Unjust Systems,” according to The King Center — a nonprofit founded by MLK’s wife, Coretta Scott King, to continue Dr. King’s legacy.
If you have time to dedicate to the Louisville community, here are three local volunteer opportunities:
- Louisville Urban League | This civil rights-focused organization has two main volunteer tracts: organizational and operational — which means you can serve on one of its committees or aid staff and clients in the League’s programs.
- Metro United Way | Improve access to equitable education, economic opportunity, and health in Metro United Way’s seven-county service radius when you donate your time as a tutor, landscaper, or supply drive organizer.
- Feed Louisville | Help make the 500 meals produced in Feed Louisville’s headquarters weekly — with the option to cook during regular hours or at night — or help distribute meals and perform outreach.
Aside from lending a hand, you can also commemorate MLK by attending one of these local events.
- Keepers of the Dream: A Community Arts Celebration of Dr. King’s Vision | Sunday, Jan. 15 | 5 p.m. | Kentucky Center for the Arts, 501 W. Main St., Louisville | Free | See performances from River City Drum Corp, Keen Dance, Young Prodigys, Redline Performing Arts, and more at this theatrical program highlighting Dr. King’s journey.
- Muhammad Ali Center | Monday, Jan. 16 | 11:30 a.m. | Muhammad Ali Center, 144 N. 6th St., Louisville | Free | Get free admission to the Muhammad Ali Center, and catch one of the hourly viewings of Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech.
Looking for other ways to get involved? Check out more local volunteer opportunities .