Temple University to host Philadelphia’s MLK Day of Service for the first time since 2007.

The Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, renowned as one of the region’s largest charitable and volunteering events, will be hosted by Temple University for the first time since 2009. This year, the event is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2026. Established in 1996, the event is considered the oldest and largest of its kind in the nation. It was founded shortly after U.S. Representative John Lewis and Pennsylvania U.S. Senator Harris Wofford co-authored federal legislation promoting the observance of the national holiday as a day dedicated to community service. Since its inception, the Day of Service has attracted tens of thousands of participants engaged in various service projects throughout the Philadelphia area each year.

Previously, the Day of Service has been hosted at Girard College since 2010. However, Todd Bernstein, president of Global Citizen and the event’s founder and director, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s return to Temple University. This move aligns with the historical significance of the university, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered a speech at the Baptist Temple—now the Temple Performing Arts Center—during his “Freedom Now Tour” in August 1965. Bernstein noted the importance of the location, stating that it represents a meaningful connection to King’s legacy.

Temple University’s president, John Fry, emphasized the ongoing relevance of Dr. King’s message of justice and civil rights, asserting the university’s commitment to uphold the values associated with this message through civic engagement and community service. In line with this mission, Temple has designated a signature service project for the day that will involve the construction of “book arks,” which aim to provide free books to local communities. Additionally, the university plans to organize a career fair, a rally for peace and justice, children’s activities, and other engaging events on the day of service.

As part of its broader initiative to encourage civic engagement, the university is building upon its recent Owls for Philly program, which aims to connect students, staff, and alumni with volunteer and engagement opportunities in North Philadelphia. Individuals interested in participating in the Day of Service or wishing to register a project can find more details at globalcitizen365.org. This event not only honors Dr. King’s legacy but also inspires community members from diverse backgrounds to join together in service, reaffirming a commitment to social justice and civic responsibility.