AmeriCorps, the federal agency that leads the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, is committed to engaging Americans in civic service to address critical community needs, fostering unity, and building the capacity of individuals, communities, and organizations to solve problems collaboratively.
The MLK Day of Service Grant, offered in partnership between AmeriCorps and The Arc, provides $5,000 – $15,000 to support inclusive volunteer projects by chapters of The Arc and other nonprofits. These projects, specifically designed for the MLK Day of Service, focus on delivering food aid to those facing food insecurity while involving volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities. The grants aim to dispel misconceptions about disabilities, showcase the ability of people with disabilities to contribute to their communities, and foster long-term commitment to civic service. Key goals include collaboration with hunger-focused groups, recruitment of a diverse volunteer base, commitment to future service activities, and a sustained effort to distribute food aid through the specified grant period.