MLK Day 2026 Events and Service Opportunities

“We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education. The complete education gives one not only power of concentration, but worthy objectives upon which to concentrate.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

One of the pillars on which our university is built is engaged citizenship. We are part of Flint, just as Flint is part of us. Service to our Flint and Genesee County community is a year-round priority for us. On Monday, January 19, 2026, we will have an opportunity to continue our relationship with our community partners and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as we have every year since 1995.

We are happy to offer an in-person breakfast keynote speaker session featuring UM-Flint alumnus, Dr. Dawn Demps, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the University Center Michigan Rooms. Everyone is invited to attend the breakfast beginning at 8:30 a.m.

We then hope that you will be able to participate in our keynote speaker program and in the many enriching volunteer opportunities later in this semester to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This breakfast keynote, part of the Frances Wilson Thompson Campus Cultural Events series, is made
possible by a gift from Frances Wilson Thompson. The University of Michigan-Flint is grateful to Mrs. Thompson for her generosity in creating an ongoing community dialogue for the exchange of ideas. This keynote is also funded in part through the State of Michigan’s King Chavez Parks visiting professor program.

50 Volunteers needed to help with packaging meals to help address hunger in Genesee County

20 volunteers are needed and the scope of work is organizing the Christmas area, organizing coats, organizing household items, labeling and hanging up clothing, stocking pantry shelves, etc.

Join us in the Michigan Rooms to tie no-sew blankets. The blankets will be given to the houseless population in the Flint community.

10 volunteers will be doing food prep in the kitchen.

20 volunteers will be working on bunk beds for children and families.

Donate Blood in the Happenings Room