Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a federal holiday—it’s a call to action to serve others and make a difference in our communities. Celebrated as a National Day of Service, MLK Day of Service is an opportunity to honor Dr. King’s legacy by giving back. Want to get involved on MLK Day but not sure how? We’ve got you covered! Every year, we run a special campaign open to individuals or groups interested in supporting deployed Service Members. All you have to do to get started is make a pledge to send care packages to deployed Service Members during the month of January (and then send them, of course)!

Why Volunteering on MLK Day Matters

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to service, justice, and community building. Observing MLK Day of Service by volunteering is a way to embody his vision of a “beloved community.” It’s also an excellent opportunity to reflect on how your actions can positively impact others. Volunteerism renews and strengthens communities, families, and ourselves while increasing understanding that things that divide us are smaller than what unites us. Why not spend today serving those who serve us? Soldiers’ Angels’ mission to provide aid and comfort to Service Members, Veterans, and their families aligns perfectly with Dr. King’s emphasis on compassion and service to others.

Soldiers’ Angels Special MLK Day Campaign

Each January, we launch a unique campaign in honor of MLK Day of Service that allows anyone to send care packages to deployed Service Members. Normally, to send a care package to a Service Member, individuals are required to join Soldiers’ Angels as a registered volunteer. However, from January 1 – 31, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we open this opportunity up to everyone – with no obligation or commitment to continue volunteering after you pledge and send care packages. We want everyone to experience the joy of giving back to those who sacrifice so much in service of their country.

How to Volunteer on MLK Day with Soldiers’ Angels

Participating in our MLK Day of Service campaign is easy, impactful, and meaningful. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Make your pledge: Head to our MLK Day of Service page and pledge to send care packages
2. Assemble care packages: gather supplies and assemble your care package(s). Bonus points if you decorate the inside of the box! Pro tip: The USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate Large Box 1 (size 12.25″ x 12″ x 6″) is FREE and provides the most bang for the buck when it comes to shipping overseas.
3. Write a note: Add a personal touch by including a message of encouragement and thanks.
4. Ship your package(s): Ship your completed care packages to Soldiers’ Angels: Soldiers’ Angels MLK Day of Service, 2895 NE Loop 410, Suite 107, San Antonio, Texas, 78218

Once we receive your package, we’ll ship it to a deployed Service Member! This initiative is a great option for individuals, families, or even groups looking for MLK volunteer opportunities or community service projects. It’s a tangible way to show gratitude and support for our Military heroes.

What to Include in your Care Package

Deployments can be very difficult for our men and women in uniform, many of whom don’t receive any support from home while they are deployed. This is where the care package comes in. Think of it as a boost in morale but also a re-up on snacks and supplies. Your care package should include a mix of the following items: hygiene products like deodorant, body wash, and wet wipes; snacks like protein bars, powdered drink mixes, and trail mix; and downtime items like crossword puzzle books, games, and books. We’re also always in need of female-specific care packages that include female-specific hygiene items like tampons, feminine wipes, lotion, and female deodorant.

Want to go the extra mile? Consider decorating the inside of your care package! Read more about assembling a care package here.

Host an MLK Day Event Near You

If you’re organizing MLK Day events (or are just looking for a way to bring the community together), consider incorporating a Soldiers’ Angels care package drive. Schools, churches, and community organizations can rally together to collect supplies and write notes of encouragement. Hosting a care package assembly event not only amplifies your impact but also fosters community spirit and collaboration.

Don’t have time to pack and ship a care package?

That’s ok! We put together an Amazon Wishlist for anyone interested in giving back for MLK Day without having to pack and ship a care package. Shop our Amazon Gift Registry and have supplies shipped directly to us. We’ll make sure those items are packed and shipped to a deployed Service Member!

Why Choose Soldiers’ Angels for MLK Day of Service?

Soldiers’ Angels has a long history of supporting Service Members, Veterans, and their families. By participating in our MLK Day campaign, you’re contributing to a larger mission of gratitude and service. Your involvement ensures that deployed Service Members feel remembered and appreciated, even thousands of miles from home.

Join the National Day of Service Movement

MLK Day of Service is a reminder of the power of collective action. By joining our campaign, you’re not only honoring Dr. King’s legacy but also making a real difference in the lives of our Service Members. This year, let’s come together to serve those who serve us.

Ready to get started? Visit our website here and pledge your support. Together, we can turn this day of remembrance into a day of action.

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