Ways to Honor and Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Ways to Honor and Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
MLK Day is a time to celebrate the progress of the Civil Rights Movement while also recognizing that we still have work to do as we move toward equality, equity, peace, and justice. MLK Day is not just a “day off.” It’s a “day on.” Listed below are various ways we can serve in the community and educate ourselves — not just on MLK Day but all year round.
EXPERIENCE
1. Visit Stone of Hope in MLK, Jr. Park
Time: January 20, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
Location: 2300 Greene St., Columbia, SC 29205
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Park is located in the historic Lower Waverly area near Five Points and features the Stone of Hope, a concrete and stone fountain located at the entrance featuring plaques with quotes from Dr. King. The memorial includes natural elements – water, stone, and trees – to underscore the themes of justice, democracy, and hope. The park will also be the location for the 37th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Commemoration.
2. “A Garden Grows Where We Tell” hosted by the Friends of African American Art & Culture at the Columbia Museum of Art
Time: Monday, January 20, 2025
● Line dancing: 12:30-2:30 p.m.
● Storytelling: 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Location: Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
This year’s theme, “A Garden Grows Where We Tell,” honors Dr. King’s extraordinary work and the rich tradition of Southern Black storytelling. Begin the celebration with lively line dancing on Boyd Plaza hosted by Franklin Jones. Then immerse yourself in an enriching collection of stories shared by Elsie White, Jeanette Samuels, Donald Sweeper, Darion McCloud, and Nancy Tolson.
Description: This is the 5th annual storytelling performance celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Price: Free
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
1. The Arc of South Carolina’s Annual PB&J Making Competition
Description: The sandwiches created during this event will be distributed to local hunger-relief organizations, including the 153 Project, Transitions Homeless Center, and the Washington Street Soup Kitchen, helping to combat food insecurity in the Columbia area.
Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Location: Sign in at Davis Field (next to the Russell House at USC) at 9:00 a.m.
Cost: Free
Bring: Donations of peanut butter, jelly, and sliced bread
Register: Register Here
2. The Salvation Army of the Midlands Rapid Shelter Columbia Overflow
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: 191 Calhoun Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Volunteers are needed to help serve dinner to the homeless and hungry. Volunteers will work in the kitchen behind Plexiglas. You will be notified on January 21 whether your service is needed via text from Sheldon Paschal, YLS Director.
Sign up to Volunteer: Sign Up Here
3. The Cooperative Ministry Clothing Bank
Time: Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Location: 3821 West Beltline Boulevard, Columbia, SC 29204
Volunteers are needed to sort and prepare clothing for a store setting. Volunteers may also assist both donors and clients.
Volunteer Application: Apply Here
KIDS
1. The Kulture Kidz
This resource educates children about civil rights leaders and their contributions. Learn more here: The Kulture Kidz
2. Civil Rights Museum
This virtual education experience teaches children of various ages about the Civil Rights Movement. Explore here: Civil Rights Museum
BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES
Consider supporting Black-owned businesses year-round! Explore these resources: