Plainfield YMCA Honors Martin Luther King, Jr. with Day of Service
Plainfield, NJ – January 24, 2025 – On Monday, January 20, in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, Plainfield YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, hosted a Day of Service to promote volunteerism and celebrate the power of community giv
ing. Inspired by Dr. King’s timeless message, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” the Y’s event exemplified his legacy through impactful actions.
Despite snowy weather on Sunday, the event was a success, with several families receiving coats, toiletries, and other essential items. “I am so grateful to our staff, volunteers, board members, and community partners – duCret Center of Art, First Tee, Lunch Boox, Angels For Action, and Malik Fraternity, Inc. – who gave their time to support this cause, braving the cold and snow,” said Leonardo Gonzalez, Senior Program Director at Plainfield YMCA. “Their dedication made a real difference, and the Y couldn’t have done it without them.”
Participants and partners also shared their appreciation for the event’s organization and impact. Katherine Balch, director of Lunch Boox, said, “It was a lot of fun. The Y does such a good job organizing and getting the word out. Looking forward to more collaborative projects.”
Plainfield YMCA thanks everyone who donated coats and toiletries— the generosity was deeply appreciated and played a vital role in supporting families in need. The coats were collected at Somerset Hills YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, fostering cross-branch collaboration. This years’ service project embodied the spirit of service and community engagement inspired by Martin Luther King, Jr.
To learn more about Plainfield YMCA, visit www.gscymca.org/ply.
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About Greater Somerset County YMCA
Greater Somerset County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. The Y empowers everyone—no matter who they are or where they’re from—by ensuring access to resources, relationships and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. For information about Greater Somerset County YMCA and financial assistance, visit us at www.gscymca.org/.