Community Comes Together for Third Annual “Serve and Remember” Meal-Packing Event in the MAC

Earlier today, the Monroe community proudly welcomed more than 250 local volunteers to the Monroe Athletic Complex (MAC) on the New Rochelle campus for our third annual “Serve and Remember” meal-packing event, a meaningful service initiative held in honor of the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance.

This powerful day of unity and service brought together volunteers from across Westchester County, including Monroe students, faculty, staff, and community partners, all committed to making a tangible difference. Together, they packed an incredible 51,500 nutritious meals for families in need throughout the region.

The event was organized in partnership with Volunteer New York!, the City of New Rochelle, The Pack Shack, and Feeding Westchester, reflecting a deep collaboration among civic and nonprofit leaders aligned in mission and impact.


Inside the MAC, the basketball court was transformed into a high-energy, assembly-line-style workspace. Long rows of tables were stocked with bins of rice, beans, and other shelf-stable ingredients, where volunteers worked side by side to fill, seal, and box thousands of meal packets with precision and heart.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome from New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert, who praised the strong turnout and emphasized the importance of community-driven service. She offered a heartfelt shout-out to the Monroe students in attendance, commending their choice to spend the morning giving back rather than sleeping in on a Friday.

We were also honored to welcome New York State Assemblymember Steve Otis and Westchester County Deputy Executive Richard Wishnie, who both rolled up their sleeves -- literally -- to join the volunteer teams on the assembly lines. Their presence underscored the power of civic engagement at every level.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, a live DJ kept the energy high with upbeat music throughout the event. Every time a meal-packing milestone was reached, participants celebrated by ringing a ceremonial gong, filling the room with cheers and encouragement.

Monroe’s student-athletes played a key role in the day’s success, with members from the Baseball, Softball, Men’s and Women’s Basketball, and Men’s and Women’s Track and Field teams leading the charge with spirit and teamwork.

Special recognition goes to Denzel Daniel, Director of Residence Life, and Paula Gonzalez-Mitchell, Student Activities Coordinator, for their outstanding leadership in organizing this memorable event. Their efforts ensured a smooth, spirited, and impactful day of service that participants won’t soon forget.

As we reflect on today’s success, we’re already looking ahead to next September, when we’ll gather once again to serve, remember, and make a difference -- one meal at a time.