By: JoAnn Schinderle, Community Networking Coordinator, HandsOn Twin Cities

With Martin Luther King Jr. Day right around the corner, HOTC is taking a new-age approach to promote civic engagement. Amongst a list of volunteer opportunities; we are also providing opportunities to engage in civic dialogue emphasizing immigration,political activism, community organizing, and environmental justice topics.

HandsOn Network has partnered with ITVS and Community Cinema to offer a selection of inspirational documentary films, at no cost, to screen in support of volunteer activities. All screenings feature a 1hour documentary followed by a facilitated interactive discussion to reflect on the film and highlight related volunteer opportunities within our community.

2011 MLK Community Cinema is a Nation-wide event with 50 communities from across the country participating in civic dialogue as an avenue for social change. Documentary Film is a powerful educational tool that can spark dialogue and have a profound effect on audiences by creating a shared experience.

 Below is information for both MLK Community Cinema screenings here in the Twin Cities. We encourage you view the trailers, spark an interest, and join us in a shared community experience.

                    Lowry Lab Theatre – January 12^th, 2011

                              350  St. Peter Street, St. Paul, MN 5510

                         Doors open at 6:30, Film showing at 7pm

            Featured Film: A Village Called Versailles by S. Leo Chiang

         Welcome to Versailles, New Orleans—home to the densest ethnic Vietnamese population outside of Vietnam. For over 30 years, its residents lived a quiet existence on the edge of New Orleans. But then came Hurricane Katrina, the immense garbage piles and the shocking discovery of a toxic landfill planned in their neighborhood. Watch as they fight back, turning a devastating disaster into a catalyst for change and a chance to build a better future.

                            Watch the  trailer: http://www.youtube.com/independentlens#p/search/1/fL87uttEESM

              Tarnish & Gold– January 20^th, 2011   

1511 Marshall Street Northeast Minneapolis, MN 55413

Doors open at 6:30, Film showing at 7pm

Featured Film:  Taking Root by Lisa Merton & Alan Dater

  How does the simple act of planting trees lead to winning a Nobel Peace Prize? Ask Wangari Maathai of Kenya. In 1977, she suggested rural women plant trees

to address problems stemming from a degraded environment. Under her leadership, their tree-planting grew into a nationwide movement to safeguard the environment, defend human rights and promote democracy. And brought Maathai the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004.

Watch the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/independentlens#p/search/0/fQepEsQHktM