Dozens of volunteers in Virginia marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day by turning remembrance into action, packing 20,000 meals for families in need through a community service initiative organized by Islamic Relief USA.

The event, held in Springfield, brought together people of all ages who chose service as a way to honor Dr. King’s legacy of dignity, compassion, and social responsibility, DC News Now reported.

“What MLK represents is serving with dignity,” said Ala Yaktieen of Islamic Relief USA.

“We’re happy to serve here at home and to those who need it the most.”

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The volunteer effort focused not only on addressing food insecurity, but also on strengthening human connection through collective service.

Organisers emphasised that the day reflected Dr. King’s belief that meaningful change begins with community engagement.

“We’re more thinking about the power of connection and the power of impact,” Yaktieen said.

Throughout the event, volunteers worked side by side, scooping and sealing basmati rice, pinto beans, carrot flakes, and a spice mix into individual meal bags.

In total, 20,000 meals were prepared. Organizers said the meals are intended as simple base dishes that families can quickly cook and personalize with additional ingredients.

Young Volunteers

Among the volunteers was 10-year-old Zoya Gavaie, who said her motivation was straightforward.

“I’m helping community by packing meals for people in need,” Gavaie said.

For many participants, the experience was as much about community as it was about charity. Families and friends used the opportunity to spend time together while contributing to a shared cause.

“I like to come an hour out with my family, friends, and we all are kind of like-minded people here,” said volunteer Yusra Qurashi.

“So everyone wants to help the community, make meals, and kind of just talk to each other.”

Yaktieen said witnessing people dedicate their time and energy made the event especially meaningful.

“When they come here, they’re making impact with their time — it does to this spirit,” he said. “So being able to witness that is really awesome.”

Several volunteers described the day as a moment of reflection, empathy, and awareness of global hardship.

“I feel like the world is kind of in a difficult spot right now, so I think it could help people,” Gavaie said.

“It’s just about empathising with other people.”

Qurashi also highlighted the importance of gratitude and giving back.

“I think we might take our days for granted because we’re here for a good time, not a long time,” she said. “We just want to have a time of reflection and give back to the community.”

Islamic Relief USA said the meals will be distributed through local mosques, churches, and food pantries across the DMV region.