The City of Gaithersburg celebrates and honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by encouraging residents to give back to their community during a Week of Service, January 16 – 23. An official proclamation recognizing Dr. King and encouraging participation in service projects that strengthen our community and foster a spirit of equality and inclusiveness was made by Mayor Jud Ashman at the Gaithersburg Mayor and City Council meeting on January 3. The City’s Youth Services Division, Gaithersburg Youth Club and Student Union were also recognized for providing thousands of hours of service each year through a variety of programs. View the presentation here.

Montgomery County hosts a Week of Service with opportunities for volunteers to help the community’s most vulnerable, keeping with the spirit of Dr. King’s message of nurturing an equitable and inclusive society. Residents are invited to explore the myriad of service activities that are being coordinated by the Montgomery County Volunteer Council. Explore all of the Week of Service opportunities at montgomeryserves.org. If you are interested in leading a service project at your own site and want to recruit volunteers, please contact the Montgomery County Volunteer Center at [email protected].

The Metropolitan Ballet Theatre presents the world premiere of Day of Service, an original work honoring Martin Luther King Jr. and the National Day of Service program. Performances take place on Monday, January 16 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Arts Barn. Children and families will learn the value of volunteerism and helping all of those around us. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 day of the event, and $8 for youth ages 10 and under. Purchase tickets here. This program is appropriate for all ages.

The Gaithersburg Youth Club (GYC) will host a Day of Service on January 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants will help create a mural for the GYC and will receive Student Service Learning (SSL) hours for taking part in the activity. Registration is $15 for GYC members and $20 for nonmembers. Register online here.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to the advancement of the fundamental principles of freedom, opportunity and equal justice for all and promoted nonviolence and compassion. His leadership and vision continues to inspire millions of Americans who strive toward his dream of civil equality. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors his legacy and provides an opportunity for reflection and action in keeping with his determination to eliminate discrimination and break down barriers to access and participation.