Rather than celebrate the humanitarian efforts of Martin Luther King, Jr. with one day of observance in January, students at Centenary College will be engaging in a full week of service, according to a press release from the school.

Beginning the week of Jan. 21, students will take time to create cards and develop messages of hope for the members of the Sandy Hook Elementary School community from 2 to 4 p.m. Monday.

Earlier that day, incoming students will participate in a Centenary College tradition at Trinity United Methodist Church called “Community Plunge,” where students will volunteer their time at the congregation.

As the week goes on, the college says, students will donate dental care products to Project Dental Africa, a program that advocates the importance of good dental hygiene in Africa.

Students will also have a food and clothing collection drive to support Superstorm Sandy Relief for Circle K International through the Kiwanis Club.

“Having students involved in a Week of Service starting with the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is an important initiative for our students,” says Mandy Huff, Director of Residence Life at Centenary College in the press release. “When we were discussing what activities to plan, it was evident that we wanted to write some words of encouragement to the children and families of Sandy Hook Elementary.  We hope that this gesture will provide some comfort and solace. As the semester progresses, we will continue our outreach to different projects, such as additional initiatives related to Superstorm Sandy Relief.”