For a teen, a day off from school is sacred. There’s sleep to catch up on, television to watch and homework to complete. However, for approximately 300 high school students in Snohomish County, this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Jan. 20 will really be a day “on” not a day “off.”

During this Day of Service, teen volunteers can choose from different hands-on projects throughout Snohomish County.

“High school students are inspired by Dr. King’s lessons of compassion and community-building,” said President and CEO of United Way of Snohomish Dennis G. Smith. “This national day of service provides a way to put those ideals into action.”

Nearby projects range from helping seniors in their homes, to leading exercises for adults with disabilities, to helping with a home-building program for low income families. Teams of volunteers will be led by Senior Corps-RSVP or other adult volunteers.

Marking its fifth year in Snohomish County, the MLK Day of Service brings high school students and community volunteers together to serve the most vulnerable members of our community, transforming King’s life mission and teachings into community service.

Organizations like school clubs, scout troops and friends who want to volunteer together are highly encouraged to register as a group. Teens can also register individually.

More details and registration information is online at www.uwsc.org/mlkday.php.

The MLK Day of Service in Snohomish County is a partnership of United Way of Snohomish County, the YMCA of Snohomish County, Catholic Community Services and Senior Corps-RSVP.

HOW TO VOLUNTEER

Volunteers must sign up by Monday, Jan. 13 to participate.  If you’re a teen aged 14-19, register online at www.uwsc.org/mlkday.php or contact United Way’s Youth United program at 425-374-5526 or youthunited@uwsc.org.  Volunteer slots at specific projects are on a space-available basis.