MLK Day of Service—GEP

MLK Day of Service: "A Day On, Not Off"

Glen Emerald Park (GEP)

1479 Bouldercrest Rd, Atlanta, GA 30316

The MLK Day of Service is a meaningful, hands-on stewardship experience honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of collective action and community care. Volunteers come together to restore, protect, and uplift South DeKalb parks through service rooted in equity, environmental responsibility, and shared purpose. This annual tradition transforms intention into impact—one park, one path, one community at a time.

Event Coordinator

Mrs. Tasha L. J. Messer
Parks Naturalist
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA)

Site Leads

• Organizational Partner: Sierra Club - Max Brown
• Community Partner: Glen Emerald Park Community Members

Weather Contingency

This program will be held rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA). Participants will be notified of any weather-related updates via email.

Where to Meet

Upon arrival, please gather at the covered pavilion nearest the parking lot.

Restroom Notice

Portable restrooms will be available onsite. Please plan accordingly if additional accommodations are needed.

What to Bring

Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe footwear. Bring a refillable water bottle and any personal items that support your comfort. Participants may bring gloves or hand tools only if they already own them; all activities are designed to be accessible without personal equipment.

Recommended Ages

Designed for teens and adults; families are welcome unless otherwise noted for a specific site.

What We’ll Do

Participants will engage in park stewardship activities such as litter removal, trail and access corridor care, and selective removal of introduced or invasive plant species. The experience emphasizes teamwork, reflection, and meaningful contribution to shared public spaces.

Walking Distance / Physical Activity Level

Light to moderate physical activity. Walking distances and terrain vary by site and may include uneven ground, brush, and off-trail areas.

Accessibility (ADA Notice)

DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs is committed to providing inclusive and accessible programs. Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To request an accommodation, please contact the program organizer at least 48 hours in advance of the event.

Participation Notice, Waiver & Media Release

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, physical exertion, and use of tools. Participation is voluntary, and attendees assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

Participants agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless DeKalb County Government, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA), its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliated partners from any claims, injuries, losses, or liabilities arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Food or refreshments may occasionally be served. Participants acknowledge that food may contain common allergens and choose to consume any food or beverages at their own risk.

By attending, participants grant permission for DeKalb County RPCA and Park Naturalist–led programs to photograph or record them for educational, promotional, reporting, and documentation purposes across print and digital platforms. Individual image requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration and attendance indicate agreement with the Park Naturalist Program – Volunteer Waiver, Food & Beverage Disclaimer, and Media Release on file with DeKalb County RPCA.

~Naturalist Tasha

404-927-4227