GIVE BACK IN HARMONY ON 2020 MLK DAY OF SERVICE

Peace and harmony in our nation and throughout the world, are resolutions we should all seek this new year. Dr. Martin Luther King’s mission of service was dedicated to achieving those goals. Our country’s national celebration of the life of Dr. King is, therefore, a perfect way to begin 2020!

On Monday, January 20th, 2020, the Volunteer Center
and the Winnetka Youth Organization will be hosting this year's MLK Day of Service that includes multiple hands-on projects for people of all ages and abilities at The Community House in Winnetka, 620 Lincoln Avenue. Families, friends and service groups are invited to stop by anytime between 1 and 4pm on this national day “on” of service. There are no reservations or admission fees required. While most project materials are provided, those who choose to make a no-sew blanket for the homeless are asked to bring 4 yards of fleece fabric. There will be a limited number of fleece blanket kits available for purchase for volunteers who couldn't buy fabric prior to MLK Day. However, participants over the years have enjoyed selecting their own patterns at fabric stores, which also guarantees they will be able to make a blanket. It also adds value to the project for young people, because it gives them an opportunity to become more involved in the full-service activity. Gently used t-shirts for pet toys for orphaned animals are needed to make the pet toys. Even if you don't intend to make pet toys, please help us keep cost and waste down and bring your old t-shirts to recycle and keep them out of the landfill. Please consider bringing donations of unopened laundry detergent for the New Trier Township Food Pantry, and gently used warm coats for refugees and homeless shelters.

Over a dozen nonprofits will be served by the projects created and donated on this special day. Projects range from creating the blankets and scarves for the homeless and refugees, Valentines for Veterans, banners and door hangers for shelters to the pet toys and matts for cages for the Orphans of the Storm animal shelter. As a special annual treat, Orphans of the Storm representatives and a potential dog or two for adoption will be present. There is something for everyone. Details about the projects may be found on the VC website, https://VolunteerCenterHelps.org

PLEASE ALSO GIVE BACK “IN HARMONY” as you participate in the hands-on projects! This year Matz Hall at the Community House will also be available to any person or group who wishes to honor the work of Dr. King through vocal or musical performances via gospel, soul, folk, or any style that reflects peace, equality and patriotism. Any ability level or age is welcome. From aspiring musicians and choir groups, to friends who gather together and sing from sheet music, the MLK Day organizers are hoping to showcase the passion of people who revere Dr. King's mission. A vocalist from the St. Pauls A.M.E. Church choir in Glencoe will be performing, and individuals and groups from all faiths, schools and service groups are encouraged to share their appreciation for Dr. King’s mission. The goal is to have a diverse playlist of performers – amateurs to practiced vocalists and musicians. All interested performers must email info@volunteercenterhelps.org to reserve a time to perform between 1 and 4pm.

MLK Day of Service

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