Charlita Anderson White
Keynote speaker and NMU alumna
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday & Day of Service | January, 19, 2026
Each year, communities across the country honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through acts of service that reflect his lifelong commitment to justice, compassion, and collective responsibility. Dr. King believed that building a more equitable and connected society begins with everyday people choosing to care for one another. His words, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve” , continue to guide national service efforts today.
This year’s theme embraces the power of service to move us forward. Every small action matters: tying a blanket for someone in need, writing a heartfelt letter, packing food for families, or offering a moment of kindness. These simple acts create ripples of support that grow into meaningful change.
Together, we can bring hope, comfort, and relief to our neighbors during the long U.P. winter. By giving our time and energy, we honor Dr. King’s vision of a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and we remind ourselves that service is one of the strongest ways we can build a more just future.
Events are being supported by Michigan's King-Chavez-Parks grant
