Give Back in Harmony this MLK Day - 1.20.2020

Peace and harmony in our nation and throughout the world, are resolutions we should all seek this new year. Dr. Martin Luther King’s mission of service was dedicated to achieving those goals. Our country’s national celebration of the life of Dr. King is therefore a perfect way to begin 2020!

On Monday, January 20th, 2020, the Volunteer Center and the Winnetka Youth Organization will be hosting this year's MLK Day of Service that includes multiple hands-on projects for people of all ages and abilities at The Community House in Winnetka, 620 Lincoln Avenue. Families, friends and service groups are invited to stop by anytime between 1 and 4pm on this national day “on” of service. There are no reservations or admission fees required. While most project materials are provided, those who choose to make a no-sew blanket for the homeless are asked to bring 4 yards of fleece fabric. There will be a limited number of fleece blanket kits available for purchase for volunteers who couldn't buy fabric prior to MLK Day. However, participants over the years have enjoyed selecting their own patterns at fabric stores, which also guarantees they will be able to make a blanket. It also adds value to the project for young people, because it gives them an opportunity to become more involved in the full service activity. Used t-shirts for pet toys for orphaned animals are needed to make the pet toys. Even if you don't intend to make pet toys, please help us keep cost and waste down and bring your old t-shirts to recycle and keep them out of the landfill. Please consider bringing donations of unopened laundry detergent for the New Trier Township Food Pantry, and gently used warm coats for refugees and homeless shelters.

Over a dozen nonprofits will be served by the projects created and donated on this special day. Projects range from creating the blankets and scarves for the homeless and refugees, Valentines for Veterans, banners and door hangers for shelters to the pet toys and matts for cages for the Orphans of the Storm animal shelter. As a special annual treat, Orphans of the Storm representatives and a potential dog or two for adoption will be present. There is something for everyone. Details about the projects may be found on the VC website, https://VolunteerCenterHelps.org

GIVE BACK “IN HARMONY”...as you participate in the hands-on projects! This year Matz Hall at the Community House will be available to any person or group who wish to honor the work of Dr. King through vocal or musical performances via gospel, soul, folk, or any style that reflects peace, equality and patriotism. All ability levels and ages are welcome in this relaxed, friendly setting. From aspiring musicians and choir groups, to friends who gather together and sing from sheet music, the MLK Day organizers are hoping to showcase the passion of people who revere Dr. King's mission. A vocalist from the St. Pauls A.M.E. Church choir in Glencoe will be performing, and individuals and groups from all faiths, schools and service groups are encouraged to share their appreciation for Dr. King’s mission. The goal is to have a diverse playlist of performers – from amateurs to practiced vocalists and musicians. All interested performers must email info@volunteercenterhelps.org to reserve a time to perform between 1 and 4pm.

Each year hundreds of people join together at this event to make a difference for every living being –humans and animals. This year give back side by side in harmony.

Questions may be directed to The Volunteer Center, info@volunteercenterhelps.org or The Winnetka Youth Organization, info@winnetkayo.org.

About The Volunteer Center: The Volunteer Center is celebrating its 60th year as a clearinghouse for volunteers to over 160 nonprofit organizations in New Trier Township and Northeast Metropolitan Chicago. The VC annually refers over 15,000 individuals to volunteer opportunities via its Days of Service, which include Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Kids Against Hunger, Earth Day Service, September 11 Day of Service, Make A Difference Day and Thanksgiving Share Your Bounty and this Spring an Earth Day service. It also supports over 160 nonprofit partners with professional training events and the ability to post episodic and ongoing volunteer opportunities on the VC website, https://volunteercenterhelps.org. The Volunteer Center also helps plan service activities with for any size group - schools, faith-based, business and civic groups with its extensive list of nonprofit partners.

About The Winnetka Youth Organization: Established in 1969, The Winnetka Youth Organization’s (WYO) mission is to foster individual development in adolescents by providing adult-to-youth mentoring with opportunities for leadership, citizenship and education within a positive, encouraging environment. Through our diverse positive youth development initiatives, we empower adolescents to become more active community members and leaders, while also giving them opportunities to develop confidence in their own talents and skills. Visit the WYO. www.winnetkayo.org for information.

About The Community House: The Community House Winnetka is a unique nonprofit organization on Chicago’s North Shore. Founded in 1911, the mission of the Community House is to enrich the lives of North Shore residents, their families, and friends by providing educational, cultural, social and recreational opportunities for people of all ages. In addition to classes, programs, and special events for every member of the family, the Community House has a full-service Fitness Center and full gymnasium available to users. Theater and dance productions are held year-round in historic Matz Hall, and weddings, business meetings and houses key nonprofit organizations. More info on their website, https://www.mycommunityhouse.org

Please honor the message of Dr. Martin Luther King and help us further our universal goals of harmony and peace through service at this year’s special event.

Questions may be directed to The Volunteer Center, info@volunteercenterhelps.org or The Winnetka Youth Organization, info@winnetkayo.org.