The Alternative Press

SCOTCH PLAINS/FANWOOD, NJ – Residents of both Scotch Plains and Fanwood are urged to sign up for a volunteer opportunity at the 4th Annual Martin Luther King Day of Service, which will begin at 12:30 on January 21 in a variety of locations around both towns. Online registration for volunteers has already begun at www.spfmlkday.com.  

Dr. King believed that "everybody can be great because everybody can serve." Individuals and families can honor his legacy by donating a few hours to one or more worthy local organizations. Last year's MLK Day of Service, which involved more than 40 local organizations and attracted more than 1,000 volunteers, was a resounding success

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.  "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." 

The day will kick off with a "Drop-in Lunch and MLK Day Fair" from 12:30-1:30 pm at the YMCA (1340 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains).  Nick's Pizza of Fanwood will sell pizza slices and drinks, with 50% of their proceeds to be donated to MLK Day activities. Following the lunch, most activities at other locations will conclude by 5:00 pm. 

Though same-day registration will be available on January 21, participants are encouraged to register online because space is limited for many of the activities, which have filled up quickly in past years.

The MLK Day of Service is co-sponsored by the towns of Scotch Plains and Fanwood, the JCC of Central New Jersey, the YMCA, the Fanwood/Scotch Plains Ministerium and other local groups.  

For more information please visit www.spfmlkday.com