United Way of the Lakeshore Hosts MLK Day of Service: Volunteers Assemble School Readiness Kits for Local Families
Muskegon, MI (January 20, 2025) — On Monday, January 20, over 50 community volunteers came together for United Way of the Lakeshore’s MLK Day of Service, transforming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision into action by assembling school readiness kits for 320 families across the community. This annual event, held in honor of Dr. King, embodies the idea of a “day on” rather than a “day off,” celebrating his legacy of service, education, and empowerment.
Dr. King once said, “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” Guided by his belief in the power of education to foster equality and opportunity, this project will benefit students in local schools. The school readiness kits include essential supplies to support children’s learning and development, ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive academically. These efforts are part of United Way’s broader mission to advance education, income stability, and health in our community.
“This project is about empowering our youngest learners to reach their fullest potential,” said Dawn Cook, RSVP Assistant at United Way of the Lakeshore, who planned the event alongside supporting staff. “It’s incredible to see the passion of our volunteers and the difference we can make together for families in our community.”
The MLK Day of Service is part of a nationwide call to service. Volunteers across the country participate in activities designed to strengthen communities and bridge divides, turning Dr. King’s dream into action. During the event, United Way honored Dr. Martin Luther King with an opening presentation, a recognition of national service through AmeriCorps, and a conversation around early school readiness.
United Way of the Lakeshore invites you to carry on the spirit of service year-round. Programs like our math mentorship and early literacy tutoring initiatives always need volunteers to support education and youth development in our community. To learn more and get involved, visit volunteer.unitedwaylakeshore.org.
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Please contact Dominique Bunker, at dominique@unitedwaylakeshore.org or (231) 332-4006.
About United Way of the Lakeshore
United Way of the Lakeshore is uniting to inspire change and build thriving communities. We tackle the toughest issues facing our community by mobilizing every resource, partner, and voice to solve those challenges. Our Bold Goal is to ensure 10,000 more working families meet their basic needs by 2025.
For more information, visit us online at unitedwaylakeshore.org, and follow us on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.