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MLK Day Volunteer Opportunities in Wilmington, DE

Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Legacy By Giving Back

By Leslie Hudson January 13, 2025

On the third Monday in January, millions of Americans will honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and legacy by making a difference in their community. 

In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating MLK Day as a national day of service. Here are a few ways you can make a difference in Wilmington, DE on MLK Day:

  1. Commit a Random Act of Kindness.
  2. Host a food, book, supply, or clothing drive. 
  3. Volunteer at one of the events below. 

MLK Day of Service: Goldey-Beacom College - Newark

  • 8 am - 3 pm
  • Volunteers will be assigned to various projects and sites, ensuring everyone can contribute in a meaningful way. Lunch is provided. 
  • Goldey Beacom College, 4701 Limestone Rd, Newark, DE 19808

MLK D


MLK Day of Service - Litter Cleanup with the Brandywine Zoo

  • 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Join the zoo for the first of their seasonal litter cleanups on this year's Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service.
  • Brandywine Zoo, 1001 N Park Dr, Wilmington, DE 19802

MLK Day of Service Winter Coat Drive: Wilmington University

  • Join students, faculty, staff and alumni as they come together to give back to the community in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. We are collecting winter coats from January 2 to 20 in support of MLK Day.
  • All locations.

MLK Day of Service: Delaware Art Museum - Wilmington

  • 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Together, we will celebrate his values of service, unity, and social change through meaningful activities, performances, and opportunities for collective action. This family-friendly event is open to all. 
  • Admission is Free. Registration is Required.
  • Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19806

MLK Day Open House - All YMCA locations

  • Join the Y's Community Open House! Bring your friends and family to swim, take classes, exercise, play open basketball, and more.  
  • Free admission. All Locations.

kids reading at the library 

 5 Kid Books About MLK Jr. & Other Civil Rights Heroes


MLK Day of Service: One Village Alliance - Wilmington

  • 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Join OVA for an inspiring day filled with: Service Projects, music, food, and dynamic speakers. Be a part of history as they work to create Delaware's very FIRST Community Urban Wellness Center!
  • One Village Alliance Freedom Center, 31 W 31st St, Wilmington, DE 19802

13th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Clean Up, Peace March, and Celebration

  • The event will include a community cleanup, peace march, and a community celebration featuring local artists, live music, and special guest speakers- presented by Delaware Music Network-, and community resources, advocacy opportunities, family-friendly activities, and a free community meal.
    • 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Community Cleanup: Meet at Todd Memorial Park, across 18th St. from Jefferson Street Center
    • 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Peace March: Line up in front of Todd Memorial by 12 PM 
    • 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Celebration: Join us inside the Jefferson Street Center for music, food, activities, and service projects.

"A Day On, Not Day Off"

It is a great way to teach your children about the benefits of giving back to their community, helping to create a lifelong tradition of giving that will bring value to not only their lives but the families they will help along the way. Start your new year by making a difference to Delaware families. 


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