MLK Day

To honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., the Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) is offering MLK National Days of Service grants to support volunteer projects that respond to community needs such as food security, disaster preparedness, education, housing, health and service that promotes the message of Martin Luther King Jr.

Eligible organizations include nonprofit and faith organizations, municipalities, schools and universities. Projects impacting traditionally underserved or underrepresented communities will be given preference. In addition, due to the source of our funding, projects should involve considerable youth input, involvement and provide opportunities for them to build leadership skills.

Funding is based on the quality of the project to meet community needs and for the project to create significant youth volunteer involvement at all levels of the activity from planning, coordinating and implementing. There is not a match requirement, but additional sponsors are encouraged. Additionally, reviewers will evaluate applications based on youth involvement, use of partnerships and equitable geographic representation.

Grant awards are available as follows:

Grant Funding Levels:

• $1,000 grant to engage 200 volunteers or more
• $750 grant to engage 150 to 199 volunteers
• $500 grant to engage 100 to 149 volunteers
• $250 grant to engage 75 to 99 volunteers
• $100 grant to engage up to 74 volunteers

Steps to take in designing your project:

1. Create Project Plan. Develop a plan to address a community need. Projects will focus one or more of following areas: disaster services, economic opportunity, education, food security, healthy futures, housing, veterans and military families, and other community needs.

2. Design Project Budget: Develop a list of all supplies needed and the costs. Grants are not awarded for staff salary, items volunteers can bring from home (markers, crayons, rakes, etc.,) expensive equipment, gift cards, t-shirts (unless for safety purposes) and volunteer appreciation meals. There should be an explanation as to how reusable items (i.e., art supplies) will be stored and available for future service. Funds are reimbursed after the event when proof of expenses and project results are submitted. Awarded organizations must register as a vendor of the state to receive payment.

Grant Timelines: Complete grant applications should be received by December 19, 2025. Projects should be held between January 5 and January 26, 2026. MCSC Staff may need further clarification on projects and will reach out with questions.

Apply for MLK Day Funding