Media, PA — Delaware County Council invites residents to the 4th Annual MLK Day of Service in Chester on Monday, January 19. Hosted in partnership with Widener University, the City of Chester, America250PADelco, the Cultural Arts and Technology (CAAT) Center, Making a Change, the Delaware County Heritage Commission, and the MLK Commemorative Committee of Chester and Vicinity, the event will honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King.
This year’s event is built upon the 2026 theme “Reclaiming the Dream – Truth, Justice, and Community” to honor Dr. King’s enduring principles of equality and compassion. The Day of Service will feature a variety of events designed to inspire and engage the community, emphasizing well-being, volunteerism, and unity. These activities are designed to fulfill Dr. King’s legacy by addressing current social issues, fostering inclusivity, and promoting a culture of peace and understanding.
“I encourage all residents to participate however they can,” said Delaware County Council Chair Richard Womack. “These activities aim to foster unity, address social issues, and inspire us all to continue the work of building a more inclusive and compassionate Delaware County. Together, we can honor Dr. King’s legacy by strengthening our community and reinforcing the values he championed.”
The event will begin at 9 AM at Chester City Hall with an opening ceremony accompanied by breakfast. Participants will then do a Peace March from City Hall to Widener University, where there will be a community cleanup in the neighborhood of 14th St. and Edgmont Ave led by Chester block captains. There will be a shuttle provided for people who would like to participate in the activities at Widener but do not want to walk between City Hall and Widener.
After the community cleanup, lunch will be provided at the Pride Café in Widener’s University Center.
The afternoon will be kicked off by remarks from local officials, including U.S. Representative Mary Gay Scanlon, Delaware County Council Chair Richard Womack and Council member Dr. Monica Taylor, and Widener University President Dr. Stacey Robertson. This will be followed by an afternoon of community building and art activities at Lathem Hall in partnership with the CAAT Center and America250PADelco. Included will be a film and activity about the impacts of segregation, the creation of an “I Belong, We Belong” banner, a station with MLK historical pins, and much more.
Finally, the Hoops for Hunger basketball game will be held at Schwartz Athletic Center at 4 PM between Widener students and guest community members. Fans are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items or make a $5 donation at the door, with all proceeds benefiting local food banks and pantries.
This event serves as a signature Day of Service for the Delaware County America 250 Commission. It also marks the launch of Delco Volunteers, a year-long initiative from America250PADelco to inspire Delco residents to invest in historic and civic spaces and community events in 2026.
Guests are encouraged to park in the Lathem Hall parking lot at the corner of 13th St. and Upland Ave. on Widener’s campus. Shuttles between Widener and Chester City Hall will be available beginning at 8:15 AM. Residents are also able to park at City Hall in the parking lot on the north side of the building at 1 E 4th St, Chester, PA 19013.Please register for the event here.
More information about Monday’s event can be found here.