United Way of Greater Fall River encourages everyone in the community to take Dr. Martin Luther King Day (1/18/2021) as a” day in, not off,” volunteering in the National Day of Service and giving back to the community.

This year, President-elect Joe Biden’s inaugural committee is promoting Day of Service as the start of inaugural week festivities and is focusing on COVID-safe ways for individuals to support their local communities.  The committee also encourages volunteers to take a pledge to give time each month of the year, whether 1, 5 of 10+ hours per month.

United Way of Greater Fall River is proud to support VolunteerSouthcoast.org, a free volunteer opportunity website.  Volunteers can sign up for a free profile and connect with volunteer opportunities in Bristol and Plymouth counties. Another resource for volunteer opportunities is Mobilize, which can be sorted by opportunity type and location. Many events are virtual.

Some independent service activities that can be done at home, and even with young children are:

• Creating cards for hospital patients, especially those recovering from COVID-19
• Writing letters or cards for seniors in nursing homes
• Collecting or knitting blankets, hats, and scarves for homeless shelters and organizations
• “Shop” online for someone who is homebound or in need, like an elderly neighbor, medically complex family, or a military family
• Participating in a phone bank or text bank for an advocacy organization
• Writing to your senators and representatives about issues you are passionate about
• Hosting an online fundraiser for a non-profit organization you support (like United Way of Greater Fall River)
• Shovel snow or sweep leaves for your neighbors

How are you celebrating this year’s Day of Service? Share your pics and plans with us on social media. @UnitedWayGFR on all platforms.