Marine Park Young Adults Host Concert for a Cause
Summarized from the Canarsie Courier Article: Marine Park Young Adults Host Concert for a Cause.
The Marine Park Young Adults Association (MPYAA) made an otherwise ordinary spring evening memorable on Friday night, April 25. Members and friends were invited to a concert with a great cause at the Gather Inn Again, 2718 Gerritsen Avenue.
The concept was developed by MPYAA founder Sam Daniele, who wanted to create a night that was not only about fun but also about giving back. We wanted to stage an event people would like to attend and, at the same time, collect things to donate to those who need them, said Daniele.
The MPYAA is a youth-friendly nonprofit organization serving young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 living in South Brooklyn. The group began providing the local youth with a space to socialize, volunteer, and engage in local activities. Daniele said it was a grassroots approach to engaging young residents in the community. “We hold events at Marine Park Coffee and partner with organizations such as the Lott House and NYC Parks to complete service projects.”
The Music
The musical list that night included two local bands that were headed to the top: Screwbawl and The Irish Exit, both of whom had Marine Park ties.
Opening the night was Screwbawl, consisting of Rob Manetta, Noah Vicencio, Alex Gerardo, and Ryan Palmer. They are famous in the neighborhood for their grunge and alternative rock. As soon as they struck the initial note, the room became electrified. They performed originals, including Jimmy, I am Happy, Mongoose, Shrimp Farm, Spin, and an unreleased one. They additionally performed Bruce Springsteen's Dark and Born to Run, " and the crowd sang along.
The Irish Exit followed Screwbawl after they were done. Comprising Ryan Palmer, Kyra Horario, Dave Hernandez, and Nick Grasso, this group has been termed a mixture of punk rock and Celtic music. Their music was seasoned with fast beat, loud choruses, and that kind of energy that makes people jump out of their chairs. They left with a couple of crowd pleasers that had everybody in the room clapping along.
Both bands were willing to perform to spread the word about the cause, and the crowd would do the same.
The Cause
The concert was more than just about the music. The Community Heartbeat Foundation NY is a foundation that helps the victims of domestic violence, and this was where the MPYAA was raising funds. Visitors arrived with bags of school supplies, toiletries, new clothes for children and adults, and medical supplies.
This was not the only generosity. The group declared that the drive would be continued the next weekend. On Saturday, May 3, they will be at Marine Park Coffee, 3411 Avenue S, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and they will take more donations. By bringing two or more items as a thank you, one will receive a free cup of coffee.
Daniele replied, It does not matter how much you bring. People like to know that they could be at a show or a coffee shop and still be able to give.
More Than A Night
The concert is not the only thing the Marine Park Young Adults Association is all about. The group has risen to the occasion to fill that gap in a neighborhood where young adults often complain that there are not that many local places they can socialize or network. They also have volunteer days, game nights, clean-ups, and other activities combining fun and doing good.
Next is Trivia and Board Game Night at Marine Park Coffee on Friday, May 16, at 6 p.m.—a chance to meet friends, have fun, and connect.
Creating a Community
The MPYAA began small and continues to expand. The concept is straightforward: provide the young adults a place to gather, collaborate on local initiatives, and enjoy their lives without having to go far and wide.
Daniele explained, “Marine Park is a nice neighborhood.” We have history, we have pride, and we have many people who want to help. We simply require additional opportunities to unite.”
The Gather Inn Again was where the concert should have been held properly, a cozy local establishment where people can go to have a drink, hear live music, and chat. It was also a place where a stranger could make a friend that night, particularly because they shared a good cause.
Why It Matters
This kind of event shows the effectiveness of a small, grassroots initiative. The MPYAA did not require a massive budget or a major-name top attraction to have an impact. They created something memorable with what they had to work with: a local talent, a neighborhood venue, and the people's willingness to help.
Towards the end of the night, there were already lots of boxes and bags of donated items piled up at the door, awaiting dispatch to the Community Heartbeat Foundation NY. The song was over, but the sense of togetherness remained.
It is a matter of demonstrating that our community cares, said Daniele. And, when you can get out of the house, enjoy yourself, and also do something useful for somebody, then that is a win-win situation.
Get Involved
The May 3 donation drive is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who did not attend the concert but wishes to be of assistance. Just drop by Marine Park Coffee with school supplies, clothes, or toiletries, and they will give you free coffee.
The group has also been attracting more young adults in the region to attend their functions. Be it music, games, volunteering, or meeting new people, there is something for everyone.
Learn more at marineparkevents.com or mail@marineparkyoungadults.com.
Future MPYAA Events
May 3rd, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Donation Drive, Community Heartbeat Foundation, NY, Marine Park Coffee, 3411 Avenue S, Free coffee with any two or more donated items.
May 16 - Trivia and Board Game Night, Marine Park Coffee, 6 p.m.
About MPYAA
The Marine Park Young Adults Association is a growing nonprofit for South Brooklyn residents ages 18–35. It conducts social functions, volunteer work, and activities that unite the community. Learn more at marineparkevents.com or email mail@marineparkyoungadults.com.