Athens MLK Day of Service

Athenians are invited to honor Dr. King's legacy at the annual Athens-Clarke County Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Monday, January 19, 2026. Volunteer registration is now open!

In 1994, Congress made the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday an official day of service. Athens-Clarke County is one of the thousands of cities across the United States that decides to make the holiday "A Day On and Not a Day Off.”

This year’s kick-off celebration will take place from 8:30 to 9:30 AM at the Lay Park Gymnasium (297 Hoyt Street). The first 400 registered volunteers at the kick-off will receive a free t-shirt, and light morning refreshments will be served.

Following the kick-off from 10:00 AM to noon, 30+ community organizations, government agencies, cemeteries and schools will host volunteer service projects. Individuals can register at the link above. Limited day-of registration will be available at the kick-off event.

Questions? Email athensgamlkday@gmail.com.

Thank you, sponsors!

Athens Downtown Development Authority | Athens-Clarke County Solid Waste Department | Athens Housing Authority | W & A Engineering | Waterman Spring Water | Publix

The MLK Steering Committee seeks financial support from individuals or businesses in the Athens area. Financial contributions and in-kind donations will allow the Steering Committee to respond to project demand, expand the scope of service, and potentially provide mini-grants to sites for project materials. Funds are processed through the Athens Area Community Foundation and are tax-deductible.

Organizations or businesses interested in sponsoring should contact carlos.pinto@accgov.com.