We organize the Cambridge MLK Day of Service and other service events to encourage civic engagement and community service to help build an equitable and just Cambridge community.
We work with local partners to create and promote special events—from gun buy-back days to flash mobs and workshops. Come partner with us and let’s work together!
We help organize a wide range of racial justice resources and events in partnership with others to bring people together to fight racism and increase equity.
We help register people to vote and support citizen engagement. We partner with others for postcard writing efforts and with Activist Afternoons. Learn more.
"Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The 16th annual Cambridge MLK Day of Service and Learning will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026 (2:00 pm-5:00 pm). Many Helping Hands and partners organize one of the largest single-day service events in New England and we are proud that the event has become a Cambridge tradition.
The day’s events will begin with a Welcome Gathering at Central Square Church before volunteers will be directed to their service locations.
There are also opportunities to lead neighborhood clothing, book, and food drives. These collected essentials will be delivered to our partnering organizations for distribution to those in need.
Register soon!
Thank you for lending a helping hand! We look forward to seeing you.
Every year, Cambridge residents raise their hands to lead a drive. Girls scout trips, research labs, law firms, church communities groups of friends—from all ages and backgrounds, they collect food, clothing and books for the city’s service agencies. For some, it is has been an MLK Day tradition going back over a decade. It is an incredible gift to the city and it makes a big difference for those who are struggling.
This year, we invite you to join the team of Drive Leaders!
Save the Date! The Martin Luther King day of service is january 19th 2026 We can’t wait to see you at this year’s Cambridge MLK Day of Service and Learning!
Here are some resources for you and for lending a helping hand here in Cambridge. Neighbors in need thank you!
Martin Luther King Jr’s written & spoken words These excerpts are from the 2025 MLK DAY Welcome Gathering at Central Square Church, Cambridge. Click on the title to learn more
Join us January 20th for the 15th annual MLKday of service & learning January 20th holds meaning this year for many. Is it fortuitous that MLKDAY falls on our
English
French
German
Italian
