Northern Michigan University alumnus Taylor Johnson will come to NMU to speak on Monday, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. (Photo courtesy of NMU)

MARQUETTE — Area residents are encouraged to serve the community in honor of the late civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. on Northern Michigan University’s campus on Monday

Beginning at noon, two speakers — NMU President Brock Tessman and 2014 NMU alumnus Taylor Johnson — will open the ceremony in the Woods Lodge, followed by a free lunch at 12:30 p.m.

“The projects we have planned are really fun and I think the students will be really excited to participate in them,” said Superior Edge and volunteer coordinator Lani Moleski.

A number of service projects will take place at the lodge until 3 p.m., including fleece blanket making for the Warming Center and Women’s Shelter, dog toy making for UPAWS and card making for the Norlite Nursing Center.

“I think it’s very important to get the community involved with our volunteer projects because is that not what volunteering is all about? It’s bringing people together to support each other (and) support the rest of their community,” Moleski said.

There will also be supplies to make bracelets for yourself or a loved one.

NMU’s Student Equity and Engagement Center and Volunteer Center are cohosting the event. Moleski also said that if any particpants want to keep volunteering after the day’s activities end, they can ask Volunteer Center members about other community service opportunities.

Alexandria Bournonville can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 506. Her email address is abournonville@miningjournal.net.