York Students Serve as Volunteers for Community Needs

On a bitterly cold January 20, a group of York College students braved the elements to help political leaders and the community celebrate the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday.

^{Public Advocate Jumani Williams pose with York's Project Serve volunteers during MLK celebration at JPAC.}

This was not the first time these students had volunteered off-campus. Nearly 100 students, part of York’s Project Serve initiative, are dispatched where needed, from the Office of Student Activities. Their academic pursuits span a variety of majors, and they serve throughout Jamaica, offering assistance wherever needed, including reading to children at public schools and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.

Project Serve at York College is funded by the New York City Council, with support from Councilmember Dr. Nantasha Williams, whose district (Council District 27) includes York College. Several volunteers helped at the MLK celebration, sponsored by State Senator Leroy Comrie at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC).

They greeted guests, directed them to their seats, and assisted in the reception area, representing York with professionalism and charm. The event, billed as “Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” featured elected officials from across Queens, civic leaders, business representatives, clergy, and community members.

“We are so proud of them,” said Dr. Jean Phelps, director of Student Activities, whose office coordinates the volunteers. “People love seeing them at events in their York gear.”

According to Shawn Blain, program coordinator in the Office of Student Activities, Project Serve is “a community service-based engagement initiative that brings York scholars to local community-based organizations to provide community service that benefits the common good. Project Serve aims to deepen student learning while increasing their level of civic engagement, responsibility, and social justice, all while providing a service that uplifts the community.”

Blain, an enthusiastic leader who inspires Project Serve volunteers, is excited to lead those who serve under the York banner. “In my time coordinating Project Serve, our York Scholars have volunteered at various events,” he said. “More recently, we spoke at P.S. 52's career fair, where students Aurelie Ndengue Toumba (an aspiring nursing major), Berlan Dorismond (an accounting major), and Kenzai Sinclair (a Computer Science major) spoke about being college students and their career aspirations while inspiring the younger students.”

Project Serve volunteer Kerryann Van Velzen, a Pharmaceutical Science major with a minor in Food Studies, has enjoyed being part of the initiative. Set to graduate in spring 2025, she is passionate about the intersection of medicine, nutrition, and human health. “My volunteer work has taught me that small acts of kindness can come in many forms,” Velzen explained. “A warm smile or friendly greeting can profoundly impact someone’s day. I firmly believe in the importance of giving back, recognizing that life’s opportunities aren’t equally distributed, and we all occasionally need support from others.”

After graduation, Kerryann plans to continue her research in Neuroscience and Analytical Chemistry, focusing on developing treatments for conditions often overlooked by major pharmaceutical companies in favor of more profitable ventures. This mission combines her scientific expertise with her dedication to helping others by addressing underserved medical needs.

Berlan Dorismond, an aspiring nurse, believes she receives as much—if not more—than she gives. “My experience with Project Serve has helped me grow by allowing me to give back to younger generations what was once poured into me,” said Dorismond. “It has strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my commitment to mentorship and community engagement.”

Thank you for representing York so proudly, Project Serve!