Grass-roots activists doing community service on the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. may apply for grants to promote community activism and social awareness.

The 3-year-old program run by the Washington-based nonprofit Corporation for National and Community Service sets aside up to $500,000 nationwide for such projects as tutoring, senior citizen activities and environmental cleanup on Jan. 18, King's birthday.

Last year in Maryland, students at Frostburg State and Loyola College won grants.

The deadline for applications is Aug. 31 and funds are to be awarded by Nov. 1.

"The way you honor Dr. King is with a day on -- not a day off," said Jerry E. Yates, head of the state branch of the Corporation for National and Community Service.

Pub Date: 7/22/98