LMSD brings together a variety of service opportunities in honor of MLK Jan. 15

It isn’t just a day off. It is a designated holiday for good reason.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls this year on Monday, Jan. 19, is not only a day to reflect on the progress we’ve made toward the goal of equality but to consider the path that still lies ahead. 

The day is also a federal holiday, which means many business offices, including those operated by the government, are closed. It makes for the ideal time to act on the day’s other purpose, in King’s honor. Monday is also a day of service.

However, the Lower Merion School District aims to get a jump on its service to the local community. And, the district welcomes all family, friends, students, and residents to participate in its Afternoon of Service, slated for Thursday, Jan. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m.

“At this annual event, student and parent/guardian organizations offer opportunities to participate in hands-on, community service projects that benefit a variety of worthy causes and align with Dr. King’s famous quote, ‘Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve,’” said a recent release from LMSD.

Whether you have some artistic talent you’d like to provide, want to give back to animals in need, help young students, or inspire the elderly, the day will provide plenty of opportunities for all. 

Those interested in participating in the afternoon’s events are asked to bring along the following items:

• Individual snack items
• Toiletries
• New, unused socks
• Children’s book (good and excellent condition only)

Volunteers at the event will be permitted to select from a wide variety of causes. Some of the options will include:

• Making sock rolls for The Giving Tree
• Sorting books for Philadelphia elementary schools
• Creating “sunshine cards” for Sunrise Senior Living residents
• Assembling hygiene bags for Philly House and Cradles to Crayons
• Making thank you cards for staff at CHOP
• Making keychains for As We Rise Foundation
• Making animal toys for the Main Line Animal Rescue
• Creating Dream Clouds to inspire LMSD students
• Participating in CPR demonstrations with Simon’s Heart Foundation
• Packing snack bags for Ronald McDonald House
• Packing dental hygiene bags for those experiencing homelessness
• Painting starfish and learning about recycling
• Decorating touchstones for Camp Erin

While the Greater Philadelphia region offers a variety of ways to give back, the LMSD will gather several options under one roof for your convenience. This event, while open to all ages, is not a drop-off event. Any students in the elementary or middle school ages should be accompanied by an adult.

“New this year, Best Buddies from Lower Merion High School will be hosting a sensory room for students who may need time away from the noisy activities in the cafeteria to participate in a more quiet way,” said the LMSD release.

You have many options to volunteer or participate in a Day of Service in the honor of King. This event provides the local community an assortment of choices, for all ages and abilities, in your own backyard.