“Freedom and Dignity for All People” is the theme of this year’s MLK celebration at Santa Rosa High School. Black Panther founding member and civil rights activist Elbert “Big Man” Howard (pictured) gives the keynote speech, followed by African drumming by the Sena Kugbega Group and a performance by the Celebration Mass Choir. A special children’s program for ages four to eight will be offered in a separate room. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Santa Rosa High School Auditorium. 1235 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa. 5:15–7:30pm. Free. 707.546.0744.
Sonoma County Regional Parks will honor the “day on, not a day off” mandate with their annual Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 16. Volunteers are invited to help remove invasive plants that threaten the park’s oak woodlands. Tools, gloves, drinks and snacks will be provided. Those interested in volunteering should meet staff in the parking lot of Foothills Regional Park. 1351 Arata Lane, Windsor. 10am. 707.565.3356.
The Volunteer Center of Sonoma County hosts a day of volunteer opportunities—arrive early to get the scoop—plus food, music and health services at the Community Baptist Church. 1620 Sonoma Ave., Santa Rosa. 9am–3pm. 707.573.3399, ext. 125.
In Marin City, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Coalition hosts its 13th annual celebration. This year’s theme is “Communities Empowered to Prosper”; the day includes a community service project and brunch with emerging leaders awards, featuring Assembly Member Jared Huffman. Monday, Jan. 16, at the Manzanita Recreation Center. 630 Drake Ave., Marin City. 9am–1pm.
Volunteer opportunities abound in Marin with a community garden restoration project or marsh litter removal, hosted by the conservation corps. 9am–11am. For more information, contact 415.491.4366.
