Plainsboro’s commitment to service and diversity was on full display at the 8th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day “Make a Difference” Volunteer Awards, held on January 18th. Hosted by the Plainsboro Human Relations Council (HRC), the event celebrated outstanding community members dedicated to making a lasting impact.
The HRC was founded in 1994 to celebrate the township’s diversity and cultivate inclusion. Through partnerships with the Plainsboro Recreation Department and Plainsboro Public Library, the HRC fosters engagement and encourages residents to take pride in their community.
New Jersey Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy, a groundbreaking leader and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, was this year’s keynote speaker. Her words inspired the audience, highlighting the importance of unity and service in strengthening our communities.
Each year, the “Make a Difference” Awards honor individuals and groups who exemplify dedication to community service. The 2025 awardees are:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Jeanette & John Weigartner – Decades of service to the Plainsboro Rescue Squad, food pantry, and local church.
- Individual Service Award: Wendy Mantz – A driving force behind community events, volunteer efforts, and fundraising initiatives.
- Above & Beyond Award: Sadie Davis & Shehla Kulgod – Leaders of the Friends of the Plainsboro Library, ensuring continued library programs and services.
- Uniformed Service Award: Sara Caetano – President of the Plainsboro Volunteer Fire Company, dedicating countless hours to emergency response and recruitment.
- Youth Award: Aarya Thakker – A standout volunteer EMT and Civil Air Patrol leader, dedicating over 650 service hours in 2024.
Attendees were treated to inspiring performances by Power Speakers Unlimited, talented Kathak dancers led by Guru Pandita Archana Joglekar, and the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh’s Surya Namaskar Yagna Members. These performances showcased the rich cultural heritage that makes Plainsboro a special place.
The event was made possible through the hard work of the HRC members, the dedication of community volunteers, and the generous support of local sponsors, including Big Bazaar Farmers Market, Nicole Takes the Cake, and Paris Baguette. Artistic contributions from Ishani Shastri and Different Strokes @ Nickie’s added a creative touch to the celebration.
The HRC continues to foster community spirit through events like the Holiday Home Decorating Contest, which saw vibrant participation in its inaugural year. The Sine Family (1 Krebs Road) and Basdeo Family (7 Thoreau Drive) were recognized for their festive creativity, bringing holiday joy to Plainsboro.
As we celebrate the achievements of this year’s honorees, we encourage all residents to continue finding ways to “Make a Difference” in Plainsboro. We look forward to another year of community building, inclusion, and service!
“On behalf of the Township Committee, I would like to thank members of the Human Relations Council for all you do for Plainsboro”, stated Mayor Ed Yates