Milford officials are encouraging the public to give back to the community this week in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Mayor Ben Blake spoke Thursday morning in Milford at a ceremony celebrating the civil rights leader's 86th birthday. From now until Monday, the community is encouraged to volunteer their time to make the world a better place.

Mayor Blake says it's important to remember the lessons that Dr. King taught us.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be observed Monday and is a national day of service.