For 18 years, the Richmond community has come together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy—advancing the fight for racial equality, justice, and empowerment while working toward a future free from discrimination. This year’s MLK Day of Service was no exception, with an incredible 1,121 volunteers dedicating their time and energy to creating a lasting impact.
A Day of Service & Transformation
More than just a gathering, this event was a powerful testament to community action, addressing key issues such as racial inequities, environmental justice, and land sovereignty. Volunteers contributed to tangible improvements across the Richmond Greenway Trail, including:
- 45 cubic yards of trash collected
- 30 cubic yards of compost spread
- 240 herb plants distributed to promote urban gardening
- 49 vaccines administered by Life-Long Medical Care
The five volunteer sites buzzed with activity as neighbors worked together, forming connections that would last beyond the day. Following the service projects, the Dr. King Celebration Area provided a vibrant space for over 40 vendors and resource booths, offering valuable information and support.
Key highlights from the celebration included:
- 450 cups of soup prepared and served by Chef Arnette Briley, bringing warmth and nourishment to attendees
- Local food trucks (Tacos Zaragoza, Curbside Kitchen, and Snapper’s Seafood Truck) served up delicious meals
- Children had the unforgettable experience of horseback riding with the Black Cowboys, blending history, culture, and pure joy into a moment they won’t soon forget
- A basketball tournament, bringing some friendly competition
- The Dirt World partnership gave children a chance to ride bikes in a safe, supervised environment
- Live performances, including a land recognition by an Aztec dance group, a capoeira performance, and a powerful set from the St. John Missionary Baptist Church choir
One attendee shared their heartfelt experience, saying:
“It was amazing to experience and see so many groups of people, of all ages and walks of life (from even as far away as Sacramento) so committed and passionate to serving. It was really a blessing to be a part of this. My first time doing something like this. Well done!”
Building a Stronger Richmond
This year’s MLK Day of Service was more than just a day of action—it was a celebration of community, learning, and collaboration. With an unprecedented number of performances, vendors, and interactive activities, the event not only showcased local resources but also empowered attendees with new skills and experiences. Most importantly, it reinforced the power of collective effort in creating meaningful change. As we look ahead, we remain committed to building a cleaner, greener, and more connected Richmond—one act of service at a time.
