Volunteer Appreciation: NYC Service and AmeriCorps Members Bring Heart to Community Support
In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month, Services for the UnderServed (S:US) is thrilled to spotlight two incredible partners in service: Aaron Miner, Deputy Chief Service Officer for National Service at NYC Service, and Shadiqa Scott, a NYCHA Health Corps AmeriCorps member. Their commitment to volunteerism and community building reflects the very best of what it means to serve New York City’s underserved communities.
AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, providing opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. Each year, more than 200,000 individuals serve through AmeriCorps programs at organizations like S:US. Working closely with AmeriCorps , NYC Service is a division of the Mayor’s Office that provides meaningful access, opportunity, and resources for communities to come together and answer the call to serve New York City.
NYC Service and AmeriCorps volunteers at Starhill, supportive housing in the Bronx.
Both NYC Service and AmeriCorps have been a vital ongoing partner to S:US. We joined forces on MLK Jr. Day Service at Alafia, a new multi-phased, mixed-use affordable and supportive housing development in Brooklyn, and again during AmeriCorps Week at Starhill, a supportive housing site in the Bronx.
Last month, Aaron and Shadiqa joined S:US staff and other AmeriCorps members in assembling home starter kits for individuals and families moving into Starhill’s housing units. The kits, filled with everyday home essentials such as bedding, kitchen appliances, and shower curtains, help make those first few days of transition smoother for the people we serve transform their new apartment into homes.
Aaron emphasized how these opportunities have helped build team spirit among AmeriCorps members while reinforcing a shared commitment to service.
“It was a great opportunity for us to build team, to build that esprit de service. When we found out there was another opportunity here in the Bronx, our team jumped at the chance.”
Laura Rog, NYC Chief Service Officer, Minjung Park, S:US Volunteer Director, and Aaron Miner, NYC Service Deputy Chief Service Officer for National Service at Alafia.
Through these volunteer experiences, Aaron has also gained a deeper appreciation for the mission and impact of S:US.
“Learning about S:US’ work has been really meaningful for me. It’s great to see an organization that is really putting in the time to support New Yorkers who need services and support.”
For Shadiqa, her day at Starhill was a full-circle moment. Although she missed the opportunity to serve during the MLK Jr. Day of Service at Alafia in East New York, she made sure not to miss this one.
“To me, volunteering giving back to the community. To connect with the people around me and give what I didn’t have myself growing up—resources, hope, and camaraderie.”
Her passion for service is grounded in personal experience and a drive to lift up those around her.
“What I get from volunteering is a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I was able to help someone and see my community grow. When you do things from the heart, you’re not looking for anything in return except knowing you’ve helped.”
Shadiqa Scott, NYCHA Health Corps AmeriCorps member, preparing home starter kits at Starhill.
Aaron echoed a similar sentiment, reflecting on how his own service journey began.
“I started my career over 20 years ago as an AmeriCorps member. That full-time service really shaped who I am. I think it’s a great opportunity for any New Yorker looking to do something long-term.”
When asked why more people should consider volunteering, both Aaron and Shadiqa spoke about the mutual benefits it offers.
“Volunteering is a bridge across boroughs and neighborhoods. It’s part of what makes New York City great,” said Aaron.
“Volunteering doesn’t just help the people around you—it helps you too,” Shadiqa added. “It supports growth, learning, and lets your community know you’re there for them.”
S:US is proud to partner with NYC Service and AmeriCorps in building stronger, healthier communities across New York City. Thank you, Aaron and Shadiqa, for bringing your hearts and your hands to this important work.
Watch a video featuring Aaron and Shadiqa sharing their experiences volunteering with S:US!
Click here to view photos from the 2025 MLK Jr. Day of Service at Alafia.
Click here to view photos from the 2025 AmeriCorps + NYC Service Starhill Unboxing.
For more information on how you can volunteer at S:US, please visit our Volunteer page or contact [email protected].
