Introduction

While MLK Day is a U.S. Holiday, Dr. King’s teachings exceed far beyond the United States, therefore Mem Global will engage in global Tikkun Olam programs to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy as a global civil rights leader, and uplift his vision for creating a more just world.    

On Monday, January 19, 2026, our U.S. communities will commemorate the birthday of renowned civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who was born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. King, both a Baptist minister and civil rights activist, had a seismic impact on race relations in the United States, beginning in the mid-1950s. Among many efforts, King acted as spokesperson for the Montgomery Bus Boycott, headed the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), and was a driving force behind the March on Washington. His efforts continue to impact civil rights policy in the United States today. 

As Dr. King worked towards building the Beloved Community, he highlighted the importance of partnership. “Connect & Listen” to your local community as you plan your MLK service! Do a quick search to see what volunteer programs are already being planned and how your MH community can help support. The most impactful service is done in deep partnership. 

Program Ideas

• For Us Communities  
• For All Communities 
• Jewish Service Learning  

For US Communities

• Do a search for “MLK day volunteering” and see what programs you could join 
• Check the Repair the World website or reach out to your local Repair the World community 

For All Communities

• Host a service project that brings to life one of the many issue areas that MLK focused on to create a better world  
• Food Access – cook and/or serve a meal at a local community center  
• Education/Literacy- create flashcards for a school/community center, join a story time, create bookmarks  
• Beautify the Community- a community clean-up, cemetery clean up, community gardening I 
• Immigration/Refugees- connect with a local refugee resettlement organization to see what is most needed (maybe help set up an apartment, sort donations, cook a meal) 

Jewish Service Learning

• Include Jewish service learning to help give context to the importance of your Tikkun Olam program and ground your program in MLK’s teachings, inspiration, and Jewish wisdom.  
• Service-Learning sheet (below)