Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Junior League of Pelham.

On January 21st, the Junior League of Pelham hosted the second annual Martin Luther King Junior Day of Service. At the event, representatives from 17 different non-profit organizations were on hand to answer questions, present volunteer opportunities, and engage with community members who were looking for opportunities to get involved. Whether you were passionate about food insecurity, or you were looking for a way to care for families dealing with a catastrophic illness, there was an opportunity for everyone.

New at this year’s event was the Junior League’s partnership with The Birthday Party Project, an organization that provides birthday parties for children living in homeless and transitional living facilities across the country. Community members and their children were invited to decorate cards and goodie bags, create birthday banners, and wrap toys that had been collected by the Junior League in the weeks prior to and on the day of the event. All of the gifts and birthday party supplies that were collected will be used in the coming months to celebrate those who would not otherwise celebrate their birthday with a party. The generosity of all participants— from donating gifts, supplies, their creativity or time— was overwhelming and a true illustration of what the Pelham community represents. By the end of the event — over 500 gifts and supplies were collected!

This event was a great success due to the help of so many people and we therefore have several people to thank. Special thanks go to: Zev Haber for providing his always upbeat musical talents to his tiniest fans, the Pelham Police Department for lending a hand whenever needed throughout the day, and the Village of Pelham for allowing the Junior League the use of the Daronco Town House. Last, but not least, a special thank you to the non-profit organizations who continue to do excellent and important work every day and to the over 300 members of our community who joined us to spread a little warmth on an otherwise freezing day.

The following organizations participated in this year’s fair for anyone who missed out on the day but may still be looking for an opportunity to get involved – Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum; The Birthday Party Project; Community Services Associates, Inc.; County Harvest; The Danny Fund; EcoPel; Girl Scouts of Pelham; The Humane Society of Westchester; New Rochelle YMCA; Pelham Art Center; Pelham Children’s Center; Pelham Civic Association; Pelham; Preservation and Garden Society; Project Community, Inc.; Town of Pelham Public Library; WESTHAB – Homes for Homeless