MLK holiday a day on, not a day off

On the third Monday in January, the nation observes Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK Day) Day of Service—a “day on, not a day off.” As we embark on Jan. 15, let’s remember Veterans who gave so much for the freedoms we enjoy by taking time to give back to them.

During this National Day of Service, consider volunteering at your local VA, Vet Center or national cemetery. There are many great opportunities for you, your family, a community organization or a service group.

If you like to drive and interact with Veterans, VA has a volunteer driver assignment with the Volunteer Transportation Network that might be for you. In this role, you transport Veterans from their home to their VA appointments via a VA provided vehicle.   

Volunteer at these events

Would you like to help at larger events?  VA has food pantries and mobile food drives, homeless Veteran stand downs, welcome home events, baby showers and other activities for you to volunteer your time and talents.

Some medical centers offer virtual volunteer opportunities by volunteering with the Compassionate Contact Corps. This social prescribing program connects a trained volunteer with a socially isolated or a Veteran experiencing loneliness to make routine phone calls to them.

These are just some of the many meaningful experiences available, with other assignments including assisting Veterans with wayfinding support at the medical center by aiding them as an escort or simply greeting Veterans at the main entrance as a Red Coat Ambassador.

Join over 25,000 volunteers

Your volunteer experience does not have to be a full-time obligation. The assignment you choose can be scheduled around the time you have available. By becoming a VA volunteer, you are joining over 25,000 volunteers who give their time to honor the sacrifices of Veterans across the nation.

With this year’s observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, take time to research these opportunities or explore the many avenues to financially support or donate items. Through your efforts, you can truly make a difference in the lives of Veterans, their families and caregivers, and make this Martin Luther King Jr. Day a day on and not a day off. 

Learn more about supporting your local VA as a volunteer or donating.