Multifaith group celebrates Day of Service

“This year has one of the highest participation levels,” said Anita Siu, a member of Peninsula Multifaith Coalition and liaison representing Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo.

The coalition comprises 32 organizations — including Hindu, Islam, Jewish and Christian faith houses — which host events throughout the year to bring together Peninsula residents of all backgrounds. Siu said the original organizers of the event wanted to highlight the importance of serving the community all in one day.

“They realized that people of different backgrounds have something in common. They all like to do service projects, and that is an opportunity to broaden participation,” she said.

The MLK Day of Service is one of the coalition’s largest events each year.

“We were inspired by his life, and the things that he did and also his question about what are you going to do to serve your community? What are you doing for others?” Siu said.

Service projects range from environmental causes — such as park cleanups — to hosting cookouts at housing shelters and making and providing animal beds and toys via the Peninsula Humane Society. This year, the coalition is working with College Park Elementary School and Allen Elementary School in San Mateo and San Bruno, respectively. The group is also working with the Samaritan House to provide supplies to new moms, a new project it’s undertaking this year.

While all event registration has been sold out, Siu said the events are still open to the public.

“Anyone is welcome to come.”

Visit peninsulamultifaith.org to learn more or donate to Peninsula Multifaith Coalition.