Honoring Dr. King by Serving Our Community Local Volunteer Opportunities

Honoring Dr. King by Serving Our Community Local Volunteer Opportunities

Monday, as we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we’re reminded that his greatest gift to this country was the call to serve others. His words still resonate:

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

MLK Day isn’t just a day off  it’s a day on to strengthen our communities, make connections, and contribute to the kind of equity and belonging Dr. King championed. One of the most powerful ways to honor his legacy is through service right here in our neighborhoods.

Here are a few meaningful volunteer opportunities happening around the region:

🌲 Bothell Habitat Restoration & Community Service

City of Bothell MLK Jr. Day of Service
The City of Bothell partners with local organizations like Whale Scout to host service projects that help improve green spaces and support local ecosystems. Past opportunities have included tree and shrub plantings that protect riparian areas and provide healthier spaces for wildlife and families to enjoy.
👉 Learn more and watch for upcoming service events:
🔗 City of Bothell Volunteer Calendar – bothellwa.gov/Calendar

🤝 Edmonds Tribute + Service Events With Community Focus

Edmonds Waterfront MLK Celebration & Service
Edmonds hosts public celebrations that include community tributes, performances, and family-friendly activities designed to honor Dr. King’s legacy. Many of these events encourage volunteer engagement in local projects, service drives, and connection opportunities.
👉 See event listings and details here:
🔗 MLK Day Activities Around Seattle (includes Edmonds) 

🌿 Kirkland MLK Jr. Day of Service Opportunities

City of Kirkland MLK Service Events
Kirkland’s MLK event calendar connects volunteers of all ages with opportunities that make a difference locally from environmental stewardship to support for community shelters and food programs. You can sign up for park cleanups, join donation drives, or contact partner organizations like Sophia Way and New Bethlehem Family Shelter to give back.
👉 Get details & sign up:
🔗 MLK Jr. Day of Service City of Kirkland

💪 Seattle Regional Service Events & Coalition Volunteering

Seattle MLK Jr. Organizing Coalition & United Way Events
In Seattle, multiple service opportunities are available through partnerships like the Seattle MLK Jr. Organizing Coalition and United Way of King County. You can assist with community organizing, infrastructure cleanups, or help with United Way’s broader volunteer efforts focused on hunger intervention, basic needs support, and educational outreach.
👉 Volunteer or get updates:
🔗 Seattle MLK Jr. Organizing Coalition Volunteer Page

Family‑Friendly Service Projects
Organizations like Serve Washington also maintain project calendars where you can find opportunities by date and skill set. A great way to find ways to volunteer both on MLK Day and year‑round.
🔗 ServeWashington Volunteer Connect

Why Service Matters

Dr. King believed that justice, equality, and community aren’t abstract ideals; they are actions we choose daily. By serving our neighbors whether planting trees, supporting shelters, or helping at community events we bring his vision closer to reality.

Today isn’t just a holiday. It’s an invitation.
An invitation to show up, help others, and strengthen the neighborhoods we love.

If you plan to volunteer today or this week, share your experience with us photos, reflections, or stories about the impact you made. Let’s inspire others to join the work too.