Volunteer West Virginia is now accepting applications for MLK Day ofService mini-grants. Organizations that are interested in hosting a MLK Day of Service project may be eligible for a mini-grant of up to $300 to assist in their efforts. Projects that engage youth in the service effort will be given special consideration.

This year on Jan. 16, individuals and organizations throughout the nation will come together to serve their communities in celebration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. King recognized the power of service.

He famously said, “Everyone can be great because everybody can serve.”

Observing the Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday through service is a way to begin each year with a commitment to making your community a better place.

One’s service honors Dr. King’s life and teachings and helps meet national challenges.

Service also brings people together of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

The MLK Day of Service encourages all types of service, particularly projects that have a lasting impact and connect participants to ongoing service.

The most successful projects connect to the life and teaching of Dr. King, meet a pressing community need and include time to reflect on his teachings.

Grant applications will be accepted until Friday, Jan. 13 for projects taking place no later than Jan. 31.

Applications for support will be reviewed to determine eligibility and approved for funding.

Again, priority will be given to projects that engage youth in the service efforts.

Apply using the following link: www.volunteerwv.org/2/ameri corps/mlk/index_MLKminiinput.cfm or contact Waylon Bryant at 304-558-0111 or waylon.a.bryant@wv.gov.

Volunteer West Virginia, the state’s Commission for National and Community Service, challenges West Virginians to strengthen their communities through service and volunteerism.

Through its programs and services, it identifies and mobilizes resources, promotes an ethic of service and empowers communities to solve problems and improve the quality of life for individuals and families.