As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches, local communities are planning events to honor the legacy of Dr. King through acts of service, like the Berkley, Clawson, and Royal Oak school districts, who are coming together for a morning of community giving. 

The district’s joint MLK Day event, “A Day On, Not a Day Off,” takes place Jan. 20 at Berkley High School and offers a way to give back and celebrate Dr. King’s vision of unity and service to others. The donations will support the Redford Brightmoor Initiative, Cass Community Social Services, Judson Center, and Royal Oak First United Methodist.

Items needed for donation include non-perishable food, toiletries, diapers, new children’s books, and clothing, such as socks, underwear, and winter hats. Monetary donations are also welcome.

One Detroit Producer Will Glover spoke with Royal Oak Schools Superintendent Mary Beth Fitzpatrick about the annual event and the importance of giving back to the community. Plus, she shares how students can learn about the past and the value of giving back year-round.