Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established as a national day of service, inspired by Dr. King’s belief that everyone has the power – and the responsibility – to uplift their community. Carry that spirit forward with an MLK Day cleanup at Irving Park and the surrounding neighborhood, paired with a community gathering across the street at Mike Bennett’s Studio.
Every piece you collect helps keep our parks welcoming, strengthens our local recycling stream, and prevents waste from entering our waterways. This is a meaningful opportunity to unite in service and make a tangible impact on our city. Let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy by taking action and caring for our community!
Event Schedule & Locations
Cleanup
🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Irving Park & surrounding neighborhood
Volunteers of all ages will come together to remove litter and recyclables from Irving Park and nearby streets, helping keep this neighborhood welcoming while preventing waste from entering our waterways.
Community Gathering & Open Studio
🕚 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Mike Bennett Studio (Fremont St., across from Irving Park)
Following the cleanup, participants are welcome to visit the studio for a youth-friendly community gathering focused on creativity, learning, and connection.
What to expect – art, conversation & a little creative magic:
- Step inside Mike Bennett’s Studio and gather in the covered studio parking lot
- Get creative with SOLVE-inspired coloring sheets illustrated by Mike Bennett
- Catch a sneak peek of the first episode of the Zooquarium Podcast ahead of its official launch
- Join a playful and educational Q&A with podcast co-hosts Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason
- Enjoy hot drinks, light snacks, and easygoing conversation
- Advanced Registration: Is required. Please sign up (green button below) ahead of time to guarantee your spot.
Meeting Location: We will be meeting at the basketball court in Irving Park, located on the NW side. Look for the SOLVE signs!
Address: 700 NE Fremont Portland, OR 97212 | Map Link
Participant Age Guidelines: All Ages Welcome
