“A Day On, Not a Day Off”
This coming Monday, Jan. 18, 2021, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Honoring the Civil Rights leader’s life and legacy of justice and fairness, MLK Day is the only federal holiday also designated as a national day of service.
Volunteer organizations encourage us to think of MLK Day as “a day on, not a day off.” WDMCS students and families can engage in Dr. King’s legacy by volunteering locally over the weekend or on Mon., Jan. 18.
“Observing the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday through service is a way to begin each year with a commitment to making your community a better place.” – City of West Des Moines
Service Opportunities
For Everyone
See below for a collection of resources for finding volunteer opportunities in our community.
Find service opportunities in the WDMCS area
For Silver Cord Students
WDMCS District Pre-approved Service Opportunities
Metro Area Pre-approved Service Opportunities
For students and families looking to start small:
The Great Kindness Challenge—Kind Acts Checklist
More way to celebrate MLK Day in WDMCS
The City of West Des Moines, in partnership with WDMCS, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, West Des Moines Historical Society, and Des Moines University, is sponsoring events to celebrate MLK Day on Fri., Jan. 15 and Mon., Jan. 18.
Activities include:
- “I Have a Dream” free nightlight kit—pick up from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at WDM City Hall on Wed., Jan. 13, Thurs., Jan. 14, or Fri., Jan. 15.
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. WDM Chamber Celebration—Fri., Jan. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. All community members are invited to join virtually via the WDM Chamber website.
- Mayoral Proclamation & Community Award Recipient Remarks—Mon., Jan. 18, at 10 a.m. All community members are invited to join virtually via the City of West Des Moines Facebook page.
- Youth Mini Conference—Mon., Jan. 18, from 1-3 p.m. WDMCS students are invited to participate in the virtual mini conference via Zoom. Register online to attend! Students who stay for the 30-minute small group discussion will be able to count the time towards their Silver Cord hours.