The Alternative Press

On January 16th, 2012, the 3rd Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service will take place in a variety of locations in Scotch Plains and Fanwood. Sponsored by the towns of Scotch Plains and Fanwood, the Ministirium, the JCC of Central New Jersey, the YMCA, Patch.com and other local groups ,the MLK Day of Service has become an important event for the community.

On this, the 25th anniversary of the federal King holiday, the creators and committee members behind this day have taken Dr. King's advice to heart: "Life's most urgent and persistent question is: what are you doing for others?"

"This is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together," says MLK Day Task Force Co-Chair, Michelle Shapiro Abraham. "Not only will every member of the family learn the importance of giving back, but they'll also discover all the wonderful volunteer organizations at work in their community."

Dr. King believed that "everybody can be great because everybody can serve" and residents can support this belief by donating their time and lending a hand to the many diverse and worthy organizations in their area.

 Interested volunteers should visit www.spfmlkday.com On-line registration will run from December 20th -January 15th.

Last year's event, which involved more than 40 local organizations and attracted over 500 volunteers, was a resounding success.  It is intended that this year's Day of Service will surpass previous year’s participation.

The diverse activities planned will encourage the entire family to become involved. Age-appropriate activities will take place throughout the two towns ,from creating get well cards for cancer patients to baking apple pies for senior citizens. For the adult members of the family, there will be opportunities such as cleaning the local nature center to working at a nearby Habitat for Humanity site. "So many organizations in our community have created volunteer opportunities for the day," says Amanda Barnett, a member of the planning task force. "There truly is something for everyone."

MLK Day 2012 will kick off with a "Musical Tribute to Martin Luther King" during the Opening Program at the JCC of Central New Jersey. Michael Goldstein, JCC Program Director, says "we are working with several community partners—schools and religious organizations—to create what will be a memorable and stirring musical presentation. It will be an inspiring way to start a day of meaningful community service."

Activities will begin immediately following the opening program and will be held throughout Scotch Plains and Fanwood between 11:15 am and 5:00 pm.

Though same-day registration will be available during the Opening Program, participants are strongly encouraged to register on-line as space is limited.   To register, please go to www.splfmlkday.com