Celebrate the Spirit of MLK - Serve Our Community This January

United Way for Southeastern Michigan invites you join us in a day of service and education to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr..

MLK Day of Service is a national day of volunteering to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy by taking action to improve communities through service. We invite you to sign up to volunteer or attend an event near you.

Volunteer Opportunities

Join United Way at Forgotten Harvest on Friday, Jan. 16, from 1 - 4 p.m. to help pack emergency food boxes and/or repack or sort fresh, nutritious food that will be distributed throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb county. Click here to learn more and to register. 

To find more opportunities, check out our 2026 MLK Day volunteer page.

Events

MLK Day Celebration at the Detroit Historical Museum

Jan. 19, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: Join us for this year’s MLK Jr. Day Celebration, A Dream Rooted in Faith: The Legacy of the Black Church in Detroit During the Civil Rights Movement. Throughout the day, families can enjoy hands-on arts and crafts activities inspired by themes of community, justice, and faith. The program also features an engaging presentation on Dr. King’s name change and his influential spiritual leadership at Ebenezer Baptist Church, offering deeper insight into the foundations of his work. We’ll close the celebration with the Detroit Historical Society’s annual tradition of singing Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” in honor of Dr. King and sharing mini cupcakes with attendees. Join us as we reflect, create, and celebrate Dr. King’s enduring legacy. Click here to register.

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Henry Ford Museum

January 17-19: Join us as we celebrate the life and lasting legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during a weekend of reflection, learning and inspiration. From January 17-19, experience three days of programs, performances and conversations that honor the enduring impact of his words and the profound mark his leadership has left on the American story. Click here to register. 

MLK Service Day with the cities of Royal Oak, Berkley and Clawson

Jan. 19, 9 - 11:30 a.m.: The cities and school districts of Royal Oak, Berkley and Clawson are proud to announce a joint MLK Day event for the entire community to remember and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at Clawson High School, including a freedom walk, donation drive, and service projects. Click here to register.