Midlands residents will head to senior centers, thrift stores, family shelters, soup kitchens and other areas of the community for a day of service Monday.

The volunteers will join others across the state and the nation as they honor the memory of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a variety of outreach activities.

The University of South Carolina has one of the most active days planned locally as students and faculty are expected to take on nearly two dozen service projects, adding to a weekend of volunteer service that started Friday and continues today.

More than 700 volunteers from USC are expected over the three days. Monday’s tasks will include cleaning at Agape Senior residential facilities; sorting, folding, and stocking donations American Legion Thrift Shop; and organizing files, closets and kitchen cabinets at the City of Columbia Winter Shelter.

“It is truly a campus and community collaboration to remind us all what we can accomplish when we work together and why everyone should make it a day on and not a day off,” said Theresa Harrison, USC community service programs coordinator.

Other area service groups, including Junior Achievement, will take part in Monday’s Day of Service. And while many of the projects have been structured, several other informal efforts are expected throughout the day.

Bridgett Molony, volunteer center manager for the United Way of the Midlands, said acts of service in any form are beneficial.

“Think about how you will do something for others Monday,” Molony said. “It doesn’t have to be a formal or organized project but something simple you do in your neighborhood or items you donate to an area non-profit. Or simply start thinking about ways you will volunteer you time this year.”

Congress designed a federal holiday recognizing the birthday of the slain civil rights leaders 30 years ago. The day has since been designated a national day of service.

Reach Rantin at (803) 771-8306.