Howard County Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service 2026

In the tradition of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's birthday being, "A Day On, Not a Day Off," Howard County is providing numerous activities for the community to honor the Civil Rights Leader's legacy through service.

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, the Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) and the Howard County Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission invite you to join us at the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center and engage in meaningful service opportunities, education and projects that embody Dr. King's dedication to equality and social justice.

A full list of service activities can be viewed under the "Agenda" section of this page, and will also be included with your confirmation email. Please note that, while the majority of activities will be available all day, the HopeWorks Teen Workshop: “I Can, I Will” Zine Making Workshop is 2-3:30 PM ONLY. Please register at MLK-2026-Teen-Workshop.eventbrite.com to reserve a spot.

Info: Bring a donation of canned goods, dry goods, sanitary napkins, baby goods, school supplies, coats, etc. These items will be collected throughout the day and be distributed by our partners at the Howard County Food Bank, Columbia Community Care, and Grassroots.

Info: Create two craft activities – Care Bear Towels and Decorative Handwritten Letters-which will be included in cancer care kits and distributed to patients in Howard County. Students who participate in this activity are eligible for community service hours.

Info: Columbia Community Care's Executive Director Erika Chavarria and her staff will provide a crafts room where they will instruct youth on creating cards, art, and other items to be given to those in need.

Info: Participate in an immersive experience where you will use a VR headset to explore historical sites, witness key events like the March on Washington, and learn about the struggle for civil rights.

Info: Community partners, Howard County Commissioners, and County Staff will read children's books about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and trailblazers in the Civil Rights movement from the Howard County Library System (HCLS) book display throughout the day.

Info: Create non-perishable lunch kits for individuals who walk into Grassroots for crisis services and request bag lunches.

Info: Children of all ages will have an opportunity create cards, gifts, and decorations related to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's legacy and vision.

Info: Teens (13-18) are invited to participate in a facilitated session where they will create Zines reflecting on non-violence.

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