Each year, communities across Iowa come together on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to honor the life, legacy, and enduring impact of the civil rights leader through celebration, reflection, and service. From community gatherings to youth-centered programs and hands-on volunteer opportunities, events throughout the state invite Iowans to reflect on Dr. King’s message of justice, equality, and compassion while continuing his work in meaningful ways. Here’s a look at several Martin Luther King Jr. Day events taking place across Iowa on Jan. 19.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
TWest Des Moines Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Jan. 19 at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex. The theme is “the Courage to Care,” inspired by Dr. King’s words: “Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.” This free event will honor his legacy through reflection, storytelling, youth participation, and messages of compassion and unity. The celebration will also feature Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. West Des Moines Youth and Community Leadership Awards. These awards were created by the City of West Des Moines Human Rights Commission and the WDM MLK Day Planning Committee. They recognize individuals who promote peace, understanding, and cooperation in the community and schools. Three $500 Youth Leadership Scholarships and one Community Leadership Award will be presented to those making a difference in West Des Moines.
13-Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Breakfast
Des Moines
The YMCA of Greater Des Moines will host the 13th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Prayer Breakfast on Jan. 19 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Olmsted Center at Drake University. With the theme “Education: Lighting the Path to the Dream,” the breakfast will honor Dr. King’s legacy by highlighting the role of education in expanding opportunity and possibility for all learners. The event will bring together community members, nonprofit leaders, business representatives, and government officials for a morning of reflection, fellowship, and a panel discussion featuring local education leaders. The program will also include the presentation of the Make A Difference Awards, recognizing individuals whose work advances opportunity and helps build a stronger, more inclusive community. Individual registration is $50, with doors opening at 7:30 a.m.
“Pack the Dome” MLK Day of Service
Waterloo
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service provides individuals and families with a meaningful opportunity to honor Dr. King’s legacy by giving back and addressing community needs. The Northeast Iowa Food Bank, in partnership with the University of Northern Iowa and the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley, will host the “Pack the Dome” MLK Day of Service on Jan. 19 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the UNI-Dome. Expected to be the largest volunteer event held in the Cedar Valley, the initiative will bring participants together to package food for the Food Bank’s Backpack Program, which provides weekend meals and snacks to more than 3,400 children at 155 schools across the region each week.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration
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