In January, we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his birthday. Dr. King worked for civil rights, fairness, and dignity for all people. He believed that change happens when people come together and take action.
That is why Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is also known as the Day of Service. We do not honor Dr. King only with words. We honor him by helping others and caring for our communities.
“We” Instead of “I”
In a recent video, James talked about what Dr. King means to him. James says he tries to focus on “we,” not “I,” in his advocacy work. He wants his work to help the greater good, not bring attention to himself.
James learned this from Dr. King. Dr. King did not fight just for himself. He fought for everyone. When we work for “we,” we inspire others to do the same.
Watch the full video on our YouTube channel.
Honoring Dr. King Through Service
Service means helping others. It does not have to be hard or complicated. Service can include simple things. You can help a friend. You can do a chore for an older neighbor. You can check on someone who needs support.
Service can also be more formal. You can volunteer to help a group with a task or event. You can collect toy donations for a children’s shelter. You can help with a town-wide cleanup or a food drive.
You can often find volunteer jobs at the library or on your town’s website. You can call your local senior center, hospital, or faith center to ask if they need help. You can also find volunteer jobs through online tools. VolunteerMatch helps people find volunteer jobs in their area. United Way also shares information about volunteering. You can find your local chapter on the website.
Real Inclusion for People With IDD
People with IDD are often left out of volunteering. This is a problem. People with IDD have talents, skills, and hard work to offer. Many want to give back to their communities.
Volunteering helps people with IDD build skills and make connections. It also helps teachers, group home staff, and day program staff plan meaningful ways to spend the day. And it helps organizations that need support.
There are many people with IDD who want to serve. There are also many organizations that need help. Why not bring them together?
Learn More
Learn more about volunteering.
- Find volunteer jobs in your area. Use VolunteerMatch or your local United Way chapter.
- Take our free self-advocacy courses to build your skills.
Join us in honoring Dr. King through service. Everyone can help build stronger, more inclusive communities.