Although many different opportunities are available on the fourth annual MLK Day of Service, co-chair Courtney Agnello most looks forward to the service opportunities to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy and the Newtown shooting.

From 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Bigg Playdate on 1730 East Second Street in Scotch Plains, volunteers can bring donations for victims of Hurricane Sandy. Music will be playing at Bigg while volunteers are welcomed to make crafts for the victims.

Located in the multi-purpose room of Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, volunteers can write messages of hope for families, friends and teachers in Newtown, Connecticut. The SPFHS Black Student Union will sponsor this event from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Agnello said the MLK Day of Service is important because it brings people together in a positive and inspiring way.

“It’s a great chance to introduce kids to volunteering,” she said. “It shows there’s a lot that we all can do to make a change for the better right here on our doorstep."

MLK Day of Service volunteers are encouraged to live tweet their experiences –#spfmlkday. The twitter feed will be available on spfmlkday.com. Check the site throughout the day to see what everyone’s doing. 

After having over 1,000 volunteers at last year’s day of service, Agnello expects a similar response this year.

She added that ever since the first year herself and the other two co-chairs, Michelle Abraham and Amanda Barnett, always witness a great response from residents of both communities.

“I think people welcome the chance to do something to help others but might not always know what is needed or where to volunteer,” Agnello said.  “The Day of Service is the perfect opportunity for folks of all ages to be able to make a difference in their own neighborhood.” 

The day will kick off with a pizza party, sponsored by Nick’s Pizza and a Martin Luther King Jr. fair at the YMCA beginning at 12:30 p.m. Nick’s pizza will donate 50 percent of profits to the MLK Day of Service.

To further explore the service opportunities that are taking place in Scotch Plains and Fanwood on MLK Day, visit spfmlkday.com. Under the category “2013 Events,” you will be able to register for each specific event. Volunteers are encouraged to start registering because space is in each event is limited. 

Agnello said, “We hope parents and kids -- and everyone else -- will be motivated to take the spirit of community and service to others even beyond MLK Day.”