MLKCommUNITY sets 26th annual MLK Day celebration at Lincoln University

MLKCommUNITY of Greater Kennett Area will hold its 26th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration on Jan. 18, 2027, at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. The event will pair a keynote, community service award, volunteer fair and hunger-relief donations around the theme of justice, voting rights and local history.

Why it matters: - The celebration ties Dr. King’s legacy to local history, civic engagement and community service in Greater Southern Chester County. - The event also uses the holiday to connect residents with volunteer opportunities and food-insecurity support.

What happened: - MLKCommUNITY of Greater Kennett Area announced its 26th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration for Monday, Jan. 18, 2027, at Lincoln University. - Doors open at 9 a.m., and the program begins at 10 a.m. - The event theme is “Voices of Truth: Lincoln University and Kennett Square United for Justice.” - The keynote speaker is Dr. Philip J. Merrill, a historian, writer and founder of Nanny Jack & Company. - The program will include breakfast, performances and the presentation of the Mabel Latta Thompson Community Service Award.

The details: - The theme connects the region’s Underground Railroad heritage, Lincoln students’ struggle for voting rights and Dr. King’s legacy. - The “Be A King” Volunteer Fair will be free and open to the public. - The fair is designed to connect attendees with nonprofits, civic groups and service opportunities across Greater Southern Chester County. - Community organizations are invited to register to participate and present their work to prospective volunteers. - MLKCommUNITY’s “Change for Change” program is in its eighth year. - The program collects coins and cash to help feed neighbors in need through area food cupboards. - Donations will be accepted in person on Jan. 18, 2027, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union in Kennett Square. - Donations can also be made through the virtual change jars at the Change for Change program page. - Celebration tickets must be purchased in advance, and no tickets will be sold at the door. - Tickets, program details, sponsorship opportunities and Volunteer Fair registration are available at MLKCommUNITY’s website. - Lincoln University is located at 1570 Baltimore Pike, Lincoln University, PA 19352.

Between the lines: - The event is structured to combine commemoration with direct civic action, which broadens its impact beyond a single ceremony. - The volunteer fair and donation drive signal an emphasis on turning holiday attention into year-round support for local organizations and families.

What’s next: - MLKCommUNITY will continue promoting ticket sales, sponsorships and Volunteer Fair sign-ups ahead of Jan. 18, 2027. - Community groups can register to participate in the fair and meet potential volunteers. - Residents can keep donating to “Change for Change” through the online change jars before and during the celebration period.

The bottom line: - MLKCommUNITY is using its annual MLK Day event to link history, service and justice in a single community gathering.