How and Where to Volunteer on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

Did you know MLK Day is a designated National Day of Service? That means it’s an excellent time to act on Dr. King’s legacy while engaging with and improving our communities. So, what are some good ways to volunteer with kids in Fort Worth and Arlington?

Below are volunteer opportunities for parents and kids in Fort Worth and nationwide, virtual, and in-person, in which you and your family can participate.

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January 5 – 31 :: 2025 I Have a Dream 1M, 10K, 13.1, 26.2 :: Virtual

A portion of every registration fee (15%) will be donated to the Equal Justice Initiative dedicated to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States. Runners receive a bib, a medal featuring a quote from Dr. King, and the honor of progressing social justice and equality.  

January 17 – 20 :: Advancing the Dream Celebration :: Arlington

This four-day celebration features a gala, step showcase, day of service, youth showcase, timeline exhibit, and a Spirit of Service scholarship.

January 18 :: MLK Day of Service :: Arlington

Hosted by Volunteer Arlington, this day of service includes volunteer projects at Washington-Liberty High School and other locations in the community. Meet at the high school at 8:30 a.m. to check in. Enjoy the opening program at 9:00 a.m., then disperse for various projects, all ending around noon. The first 750 volunteers to check in will receive a free t-shirt! Register online by January 16. Service hours are 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

January 20 :: Crowley House of Hope :: Crowley

Sort and organize donations in the thrift store, and assist with tasks that make a difference for neighbors in need. RSVP in advance to [email protected]. All volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Two service time slots will be from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 – 3:00 p.m.

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January 20 :: MLK Day of Service :: Grapevine

Register at the link to volunteer with Grapevine Parks and Recreation. Projects may include litter pickup in parks and green spaces, plus general beautification projects. Service hours are 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

January 20 :: Zeb Strong Jr. Day of Service :: Arlington

Gather at Mission Arlington-Mission Metroplex for community assignments. Be sure to print and fill out the registration form at the link beforehand. The first 500 volunteers will receive a commemorative t-shirt! Check out all the events scheduled for the 2025 Advancing the Dream Celebration weekend, including talent showcases, a festival, and more. Volunteers must check in by 9:00 a.m.

January 25 :: MLK 7th Annual Fish Creek Cleanup and Food Drive :: Arlington

Join The Mission Continues and the Dallas/Fort Worth Platoon at Cravens Park to beautify eight miles of the Fish Creek Linear Trail. Come for 30 minutes or stay all day! Find out more at the link. Service hours are 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., rain or shine.

January 25 :: National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum Day of Service Program :: Fort Worth

At The Warehouse, the museum will be accepting donations of socks, gloves, knit caps, scarves, and blankets for a local shelter, while also hosting a free community health fair. Vendors will offer unique giveaways and helpful information. Drop off donations from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

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More Ways to Volunteer . . . 

AmeriCorps has an easy-to-use volunteer opportunity database. Enter your zip code and check the box for MLK Day to find volunteer opportunities near you. 

Similarly, Youth Service America has an MLK Day of Service hub. Do you need to create service projects for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, or any other youth community groups? Check out these volunteer project ideas and tips to get you going.

Engage is run by Points of Light Global Network, a nonprofit that connects community members with volunteer opportunities. Enter your zip code at the link to find a variety of ways to help.

Idealist is another great way to search for volunteer opportunities near you — from community outreach to Meals on Wheels deliveries and more.

Presbyterian night shelter True Worth Place provides shelter, showers, food, mental health services, and much more to anyone in need. It welcomes group and individual volunteers year round. Register for a virtual volunteer training.

Where there is selflessness, there is kindness. Where there is patience, there is understanding. And where there are givers, there is love. Volunteering on Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a great way to teach young people the values the notable civil rights leader stood for and why our differences are worth recognizing and celebrating. 

How will you and your kids spend the day giving back?