To honor Dr. King's legacy of tolerance, peace, and equality, the Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday has been dedicated as a Day of Service. Volunteers around the country participate in community service projects and give their time to help others. To learn more, see project examples, download marketing materials, and register your organization or service project, visit MLKDay.gov.

Blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel schedules, inclement weather and illness. A reduction in turnout can put our nation's blood inventory at a critical low. The American Association of Blood Banks in conjunction with America's Blood Centers and Citizen Corps Affiliate, the American Red Cross, is celebrating National Blood Donor Month to encourage donors to give or pledge to give blood. Citizen Corps Councils should consider coordinating with area hospitals, health and fitness centers, places of worship, community centers, the American Red Cross and their nearest Blood Center to host a local blood drive in order to assist in maintaining blood supplies for emergencies of all types. To learn more, please visit http://www.aabb.org.

On February 17, 2009 all full-power broadcast television stations in the United States will stop broadcasting on analog airwaves and begin broadcasting only in digital. Millions of American residents depend on television as a reliable source of information, to include emergency alerts and warnings. Citizen Corps Councils are urged to inform members of your community -- especially older adults and homebound individuals -- of the digital transition to ensure they take any necessary action to receive and view over the air digital signals.

The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) is a coalition of 49 nonprofit organizations that respond to disasters as part of their overall mission. Cash donations to support these organizations' efforts are appreciated in lieu of material donations, such as clothing, food, or supplies. Please click on the appropriate National VOAD member's website to learn how you can donate directly to the organization of your choice. Volunteers will be needed in the months ahead to support relief and recovery efforts. You can connect to a local National VOAD organization or call 1800-VOLUNTEER to learn about volunteer opportunities in your local area.