Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day) is this Monday! On this day we honor the life and legacy of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. — a civil rights activist. He inspired many to work towards changes to further racial and economic equality for the Black community. On this day we reflect on Dr. King’s lifework and strive to contribute to building a stronger and more resilient community.

Many of the community events planned on this day encourage us to connect with others through volunteerism and our personal talents. Creating a sense of belonging in the community where we live is important for all, but especially for children and youth to grow into resilient and thriving adults. As part of the Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences (HOPE) framework, it's important for kids to have an awareness of and engage with their community, including the people, places, and cultural traditions that make it unique. While activities like volunteering, playing sports, or joining a youth group are great ways for children and youth to build a sense of community, taking part in community observances, like MLK Day, can also build a sense of unity and introduce youth to history and experiences that may be outside their own.

These experiences can help kids grow into healthy and resilient adults while creating a sense of belonging and feeling that they matter to others in their community. Check out some of the MLK events going on this weekend and consider taking part in one! *event details taken from: Celebrate MLK Day 2021 in Spokane - City of Spokane, Washington (spokanecity.org)

• Sunday, Jan. 15, 3 – 5 p.m. – Commemorative Celebration, Holy Temple Church of God in Christ, 806 W. Indiana Avenue. This free event is hosted by the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. For information, call 509.868.0856.
• Monday, Jan. 16, 10 a.m. – MLK Day Unity Rally, meet outside of the Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Boulevard. For information, call 509.868.0856.
• Monday, Jan. 16, 11 a.m. – MLK Day Unity March, the march will start and end at the Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Boulevard. For information, call 509.868.0856.
• Monday, Jan. 16, 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. – MLK Day Resource Fair, Spokane Convention Center, Ballrooms 111 ABC, 334 W. Spokane Falls Boulevard. For information, call 509.868.--0856.

Even if you can’t attend an MLK Day event, there are plenty of ways to make Monday or the days following a time of service and engagement within one’s community. Prepare a meal for an elderly neighbor together with your kids, drop off clothes at a donation center, volunteer as a family at a non-profit organization, or read a book and talk about the importance of MLK’s legacy and how we can all be a part of building a community where everyone is celebrated. To learn more about the HOPE framework, visit: The Four Building Blocks of HOPE | Tufts Hope (positiveexperience.org)