Yes, today is Martin Luther King Day. But instead of taking the day off, why not give back to the neighborhood — and maybe earn yourself a free beer in the process?
In 1994, legislation was passed establishing the MLK Day of Service, encouraging Americans to spend the holiday volunteering in their local communities.
Here in the Lower Haight, our Merchants and Neighbors Association (LoHaMNA) is suggesting a few ways for you to give back to the neighborhood today:
1. Pick up pieces of trash on your block
2. Sweep up in front of your building
3. Contact Friends of the Urban Forest and ask for a tree to be planted in front of your building if there isn’t one already.
4. Or just donate some time to neighbors who might need a helping hand.
Though volunteering should certainly be its own reward, here’s a little extra incentive: if you participate in the Day of Service, go to Danny Coyle’s between 12:30pm and 1:30pm and tell the bartender that you helped serve the Lower Haight. You’ll be given a complimentary beer or soft drink for your efforts.
So, get out there and do some good today. And if you know a worthy project in the neighborhood that could use some extra help, spread the word in the comments.