On Monday, volunteers gathered at the Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall Social and Economic Institute for the annual United Way Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. The event brought together residents, partners and sponsors to beautify the garden area and refresh the murals surrounding the building.
The improvements not only enhanced curb appeal but also strengthened the institute’s role as a welcoming community hub.
“I love working with the people, I love seeing the difference that we make,” said Lauren Melendez. “It really is being able to have the opportunity to be part of a community or a part of an organization that goes out into the community that sees a need and pulls resources together to go ahead and fulfill that need.”
As part of the renovation, girls from “Girl Power Rocks” will now be able to rehearse in a newly updated space designed to support youth arts and empowerment. The event was proudly supported by the Grant family, recipients of the Tocqueville Award, who have sponsored the MLK Day of Service for more than 30 years.
