Lake County Gazette

The rescheduled 16th annual Day of Service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held on Monday, February 17, coinciding with President's Day. The date change was necessitated by a conflict with the presidential inauguration.

According to a Highland Park news release, the decision to move the Day of Service from its original date on January 19 was made following a recommendation by the Human Relations Advisory Group. The aim was to ensure that the event honoring King's legacy receives appropriate attention.

The news release states that the event will take place from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Recreation Center of Highland Park, located at 1207 Park Ave. W.

The release further notes that this occasion provides an opportunity for the region to unite in support of local organizations making daily contributions to individuals in need. The program includes a keynote presentation and service projects, with a donation drive available at the Recreation Center parking lot from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Information about on-site service projects will be posted on cityhpil.com/mlk.

Presidents' Day is described as a student non-attendance day, maintaining the tradition of the Day of Service being "a day on, not a day off," in Highland Park.

The program is characterized as a joint signature event organized by the City of Highland Park, its Human Relations Advisory Group, and the Park District of Highland Park. The Day of Service aims to bring together city residents and neighbors throughout the North Shore for service projects, presentations, and special performances honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy.