MLK Jr Day...Not Just a Day Off From Work...

Looking for something to do? Visit the official site for MLK, Jr. Day of Service (Philly Tri-State) volunteer opportunities. Register online and you can find activities that range from haircuts for children, food prep, outdoor and indoor clean up, painting, beautification projects, and awareness events, such as this one organized by City Year. You can also check out the national site for more information.

Register Here.

The Food Trust brought us the Night Markets but they do more than just bring food trucks together. They run farmer's markets, community education and more! Other local food-based organizations include the Mitzvah Project, MANNA, PhilAbundance and SHARE.

Many organizations offer opportunities year-round with flexible schedules that work with your own. Donate your time to children in South Philly's United Communities,or victim/survivors at Women Organized Against Rape or DelCo Women Against Rape. Bring smile to someone's face by spending time at your nearest hospital including the Crozer-Chester Medical Center.

You can even join the Philly Clean Up , attorneys can volunteer with ACLU, and all skill levels are welcome to join Back on My Feet: Philly Chapter to train together for the Broad Street Run in May 2013.

If you prefer you can even become a foster parent for a pet of a military service member through PACT or a Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). CASA's mission "...is to train and support community volunteers to advocate for the health, safety, stability and well-being of abused and neglected children. " Philly Chapter, Delaware County Chapter.

 

Don't feel like giving up your only free day, or unable to take time off from work? 

No worries, all non-profit organizations accept donations, many online, 

but also check out these local companies that make a difference...

United by Blue "For every product sold, UBB removes 1 pound of trash from our world's oceans and waterways."

KNO Clothing "When you shop at KNO, we give 50% of our profits to help end homelessness. Your purchase provides an article of clothing to someone in need and supports the work of our partners in over 150 different communities across the United States."

When you shop at thrift stores (not consignment or vintage shops) such as these, you help the environment by recycling garments, and the money from your purchases help to fund worthy projects, Impact Thrift Stores , Philly AIDS Thrift Store, The Wardrobe Boutique supports The Career Wardrobe.

Didn't find anything that interests you? Donate to the American Red Cross to help victims of Hurricane Sandy, military service members and other Americans in need. Check out these search engines to find an opportunity near you: VolunteerMatch, Idealist, MainLine Patch.