KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Today the world honors the work and legacy of activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
It is a federal holiday which means banks and other governmental offices are closed. There will be no mail delivery today and the post offices are also closed.
Kalamazoo City offices are open today and the city commission will meet Tuesday evening instead due to the holiday. Overall it’s best to call ahead if you are unsure what is open or closed.
Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service in 1994.
Many recognize his service by giving back to the community through various volunteer efforts today.
In Kalamazoo, the Gryphon Place is encouraging community members to have a “day on” instead of a “day off” in recognition of MLK Day.
Event and Volunteer Manager with Gryphon Place Jennifer Van VanOosterhout says their community-wide day of service takes place at 17 different sites with about 200 volunteer opportunities going on throughout the day between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Once the volunteer events are over guests are invited to the Kalamazoo Metro Transit Center at 4:20 p.m. for a march and wreath laying ceremony at MLK Park in downtown Kalamazoo.
Attendees are encouraged to use Metro Transit to arrive at the march. Hot beverages will be served in MLK park at 4:45 p.m.
Those still interested in participating in the volunteer portion can register at City Hall at 8 a.m. Monday morning or find more information at gryphon.org/events.
