Did you know Greater Philadelphia is home to the largest Martin Luther King Day of Service in the nation? Commemorating its 30th anniversary, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and its Jewish Community Relations Council is once again proud to co-sponsor Global Citizen’s Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service on January 20, 2025. You can visit Global Citzen’s website for a full lineup of local volunteer opportunities.
Out of the various and important programs being held that day, Jewish Greater Philadelphia is showing up by hosting a number of volunteer events to take action and to honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Martin Luther King Day reminds us of the important role that Jews played and continue to play in the fight for racial equality and voting rights," said Senior Chief of External Affairs Jeffrey Lasday.
Chesed, acts of loving-kindness, and mitzvot, good deeds, are cornerstones of Judaism.
"Tzedek, or justice — the belief that there is an existential morally right way to behave — is a core Jewish value," Lasday continued. "In Deuteronomy 16:20, we are commanded: 'Justice, justice you should pursue, that you may thrive.' MLK day is that annual reminder that there are concrete actions that we can take to create a more just and better world."
Check out the following ways to uphold these Jewish tenets and to ensure that your MLK Day is a day on – not a day off:
Jewish Relief Agency (JRA) - MLK Day of Service Distribution
Sunday, Jan. 19
JRA Warehouse
Join JRA to pack and deliver boxes of nutritious food to hungry people throughout Greater Philadelphia while commemorating the extraordinary life of Martin Luther King Jr. Advance registration is required. To sign up, click here.
MLK Day of Service in Wissahickon Valley Park
Jan. 20 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Blue Bell Park
Help revitalize Blue Bell Park by removing invasive vines, cleaning up litter, and protecting the watershed that supports local wildlife. Your efforts will beautify the park and promote a healthier ecosystem. To learn more and register, click here.
Renew, Protect and Reset: Chew Honors The KING
Jan. 20 | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dr. Charles Chew’s Recreation Center
Assist with field de-weeding, trash removal, and soil covering installations. After volunteering, enjoy free activities like chair yoga, wellness workshops, and leadership awards, along with free breakfast and lunch. To learn more and register, click here.
Hands and Hearts: Tu B’Shevat and MLK Day
Monday, Jan. 20, 2025 | 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Join the Jewish Federation's Buxmont Kehillah, jkidphilly and Ambler Arboretum of Temple University to celebrate Tu B’ Shevat and participate in an MLK Day Mitzvah! Participants will enjoy crafts, decorate cards for the Mitzvah Circle or Israel, learn about Tu B’Shevat and read stories. Advanced registration is encouraged and the event address will be provided upon registration. This program is for families with young children ages 2–12. Siblings and family members always welcome! To register, click here.
Clothes Sorting
Jan. 20 | 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Beth Am Israel
Sort donated clothes (all sizes and seasons). Feel free to bring gently used clothes and children’s books. Afterward, engage in meaningful hands-on service projects like herb potting, card making, cooking for a friend, or making toys for animal shelters. Free lunch is provided! To learn more and register, click here.
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Looking for ways to volunteer all year-round? Check our volunteer page.