January 17, 2022 marks the 27th anniversary of commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a national holiday. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. lived with a vision of equality for everyone, and he spent his life pursuing this vision. This year United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region is hosting the second annual 21-Day Equity Challenge in his honor.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said that, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” Throughout the month of January, United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region is providing opportunities for individuals to do something for others. Volunteer opportunities are available both virtually and socially distanced on site. Our group volunteer events are designed with safety in mind, adhering to the health protocols that are set in place.
We are honored to bring people together in Dutchess and Orange Counties to join the fight for the equity, health, education and financial stability of every person in every community.
In observance of MLK Day 2022, we have arranged the following volunteer opportunities and activities. Virtual and in-person opportunities are available. Please email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106 if you are interested in volunteering with us at any of these events.
MLK Day of Service 2022 Volunteer Opportunities
January 10 and 14
11:00am
Letter Writing Party
Join us in sending notes of encouragement to socially isolated seniors in our community. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
January 17
Virtual
21-Day Equity Challenge
Join the Challenge. Sign up today and you'll receive daily emails on different equity topics beginning on 1/17 with links to relevant articles, videos and podcasts. Go to www.uwdor.org/21dayequitychallenge
January 19
12:00pm
Virtual Speech Writing
Join us as we write our own "I Have a Dream" speeches via zoom. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
January 20
4:00pm
Virtual screening: Just Mercy
A powerful true story about the Equal Justice Initiative. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
January 24
3:00pm
Hands-on Volunteer Opportunity
Assist United Way with unpacking and organizing our donations which will be distributed throughout the community to families in need of essential items including diapers, clothing, and various household necessities. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
January 26
5:00pm
Hands-on Volunteer Opportunity
Help sort food items at the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley. Your efforts will help low-income families stretch their limited budgets and eat better. Limited to 5 volunteers. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
January 28
9:00-11:00am and 11:00am-1:00pm
Hands-on Volunteer Opportunity
Help prepare and distribute hot meals to the community at the Lunch Box. Limited to 2 volunteers per shift. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
Ongoing
Hands-on Volunteer Opportunity
Deliver food to families in need. One volunteer needed in Dutchess County and one volunteer needed in Orange County. Preregistration required. Email kconstable@uwdor.org or call 845-471-1900 ext. 3106.
Ongoing
Hygiene Drive
Start your own hygiene drive or purchase items from the Amazon Wish List. Drop off to the United Way Poughkeepsie Office at 75 Market Street. Items needed include: shaving cream, band aids, lip balm, feminine products, face cloths, nail clippers, laundry detergent, bar soap, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Click here to download the flyer (PDF) (JPG).
