Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service

Each year, communities across the nation honor Dr. King’s legacy by turning his vision of justice, equality, and service into action. The holiday is a call to serve others, strengthen our neighborhoods, and build a more connected, compassionate community.

Why Serve?
Dr. King believed that “life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” Volunteering on MLK Day is an opportunity to answer that question whether by helping those in need, supporting local projects, or contributing your time and talents to make a difference.

Join us in celebrating his legacy through service. Explore volunteer opportunities and learn how you can be part of Kirkland’s MLK Jr. Day of Service below.

2026 Service Opportunities

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is January 19, 2026.

Environmental Stewardship

• Green Kirkland Partnership, Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Juanita Heights Park
• Green Kirkland Partnership, Monday, January 19, 2026 | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Everest Park
• Green Kirkland Partnership, Monday, January 19, 2026 | 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Kingsgate Park
• Adopt-a-Road sponsors - organize your friends and family for your first cleanup event of the year

Educational Opportunities

• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Film Screening at City Hall Council Chambers- January 23
• Black History Month Film Screening at City Hall Council Chambers - February 6

Community Support Opportunities

• Sophia Way – Volunteer, donate a meal, or host a donation drive: https://sophiaway.org/volunteer/ 
• New Bethlehem Family Shelter – Donate a meal or volunteer: https://ccsww.org/services/new-bethlehem-programs/
• Safe Parking Program – Donate meals or goods: https://lakewaumc.org/donation-page/
• Nourishing Network – Food donations: https://nourishingnetworks.net/kirkland/give-help/food

More Opportunities

• Donate Blood on January 19 at Holy Family (7045 120th Ave NE). Book your appointment here. 
• Find more MLK, Jr. Day of Service events at: https://volunteer.uwkc.org
• Find volunteer opportunities year round with the City of Kirkland on our Volunteer webpage. 

In addition to volunteering, consider researching a cause that matters to you and learning about local organizations making progress in that area. For example, WA Immigrant Solidarity Network offers ways to get involved in immigrant rights advocacy.

Read the proclamation here.