Record turnout for C.O. King Day of Service projects

More than 380 Central Oregon volunteers came out to take part in a variety of projects on Monday’s sixth annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.

Nonprofits across Central Oregon in Bend, La Pine, Prineville and Redmond developed 20 projects — utilizing over 1,100 hours of volunteer work to paint, build, arrange flowers, craft valentines, make dog beds and more.

Volunteer Connect organizes the holiday event, which took place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and was followed by a complimentary lunch donated by Deschutes Brewery.

“We were extremely pleased with how the community stepped up this year to volunteer on MLK Day and are honored to facilitate this event,” said Katya Spiecker, Volunteer Connect’s program coordinator. “Breaking barriers and bridging gaps is what this day is all about, and every year we hear from volunteers who have broadened their perspective after participating in this event.”

The Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday is the only federal holiday observed as a day of service — a “day on, not a day off.” Over the past six years, more than 1,700 volunteers in Central Oregon have donated their time to local nonprofits on MLK Day.

Volunteering Year Round

Volunteer Connect encourages the public and those who volunteered on MLK Day to contribute to their communities throughout the year. With over 300 volunteer opportunities on its website from 140 partner nonprofits, there are plenty of chances to get involved and give back year round.

Volunteer Connect Mission

Volunteer Connect links community members with rewarding volunteer opportunities to enhance Central Oregon. It partners with non-profit and public organizations to recruit and connect volunteers, matching volunteer interests and skills with community needs.

Learn more: http://www.volunteerconnectnow.org/