MLK Day of Service is a federal holiday in the United States honoring the life and legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. It is observed annually on the third Monday in January, which this year falls on January 16. The holiday is marked by a National Day of Service, where people are encouraged to volunteer their time and talents to help their communities.

One way to get involved in the MLK Day of Service is by participating in projects organized by the SECU Family House to benefit UNC patients and their loved ones who travel on January 16^th and beyond!  SECU Family House works to provide a safe, nurturing, affordable home for  patients and their loved ones who travel great distances to UNC Hospitals for life-saving procedures and serious illnesses.

This year, Family House is hosting several service events in honor of MLK Day.  See below for ways to give back:

1. It’s Casseroles Out of Kindness (C.O.O.K.) Time!  Would you be willing to make a casserole at home and deliver it to Family House to provide nourishment for our guests? Sign up to C.O.O.K. here. 
2. Host a Wish List Drive: Anything you use at home; we use at ours. Ask friends and family to donate travel sized toiletries, paper products, and food items that are used daily. See our Wish List here.
3. Make a Meal for Guests:  We would love for you to come and make a meal for our guests on the evening of the MLK Day of Service, January 16. Not available that day? Not problem. View our meal calendar for the month of January and beyond to sign up for making breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.  For more information, check out our Meal Providers Guide.
4. Pack a Sack: On January 16^th we are looking for a group to come to Family House to pack grab and go bags for our guests.  See our guide for more information.

By participating in these events, you can help make a positive difference in the lives of families going through a medical crisis, but you are not limited by these events.  The sky is the limit! Contact our Volunteer Manager, Georgie Clemens, with your ideas for giving back or if you have any questions regarding our MLK Event.

Whether you can volunteer a few hours of your time or donate much-needed items, every little bit helps. So, join us in celebrating MLK Day of Service and make a difference in our community!