Grant administered through Engage NJ funds service at Hackettstown afterschool program, serving as a springboard for more volunteer activities throughout the semester

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, Feb. 12, 2026—For Centenary University students, the opportunity to honor the legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. extends far beyond the national day of service in January that bears his name. Thanks to an annual grant administered by Engage NJ, the entire month became the starting point for spring semester volunteerism. Funding for the grant is provided by the Corporation for National and Community Service (Americorps). 

“Centenary University has been honored to receive the MLK Day of Service grant for three consecutive years,” said Kathleen Greco, dean of student success and director of the Centenary Civic Engagement Center. “Each year, we select initiatives that create a meaningful impact in our community and a lasting impression on our students. The MLK Day(s) of Service has become a cherished tradition that kicks off our spring semester, setting the tone for a season of learning and engagement. As a faith-based institution, service is a core value of our mission. Through the Centenary Civic Engagement Center, we engage students, faculty, and staff throughout the year in planning and implementing impactful service projects that reflect Dr. King’s legacy of justice and community building.”

This year, Centenary used the $2,000 grant to fund a partnership with the Trinity Church Afterschool Program in Hackettstown, which supports local middle school students through mentoring and enrichment activities. A Centenary student group called Recognized Student Organizations led a variety of activities including arts and crafts, chess, volleyball, soccer, four-square, and bingo with prizes. The University volunteers also provided food and snacks, including pizza and Dunkin’ Donuts, creating a welcoming and engaging environment for participating students. In addition, the grant funded University-branded sweatshirts for middle school participants. 

The Centenary Civic Engagement Center partners with Recognized Student Organizations, the Centenary Student Government Association, Cyclone Athletics, and other student groups to foster volunteerism and strengthen community engagement. During the University’s annual spring break week, Centenary students participate in local service projects and athletics teams often incorporate a volunteer component into overseas travel. 

Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Administration Kerry Mullins said this year’s MLK Day(s) of Service at the Trinity Church Afterschool Program has inspired Centenary students to continue giving back: “The program brought together student volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds who served as mentors and positive role models for youth. Many of the volunteers found the experience so meaningful that they committed to continuing their service throughout the semester, building stronger relationships and increasing the program’s long-term impact.”

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Centenary University was founded in 1867 by United Methodists and offers extraordinary learning opportunities that empower students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and interculturally—keys to career and personal success. The University aspires to advance its reputation as a world class institution offering innovative programs, including the world’s first Ph.D. in Happiness Studies and first Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, to lift the future for our students and local communities.