John Robinson, Jr. (1934-2010) devoted his life to community activism, remaining in the Green Valley neighborhood of his birth. A Howard University graduate and former U.S. Army member who briefly collaborated with Martin Luther King, Jr., Robinson drew inspiration from King's work. He established and directed the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Green Valley for over 40 years. As a fervent advocate for equal rights, Robinson helped individuals regardless of race or age, offering support 24/7.

The Center organized clothing and food drives, offered counseling on drug abuse, and provided aid to low-income residents of Green Valley, along with educational programs. Robinson actively addressed community challenges, including drug-related issues, gang violence, and neighborhood conflicts. His welcoming door, at times providing shelter for the homeless during winter, exemplified his commitment to the community. Known as the "Mayor of Green Valley," Robinson published the Green Valley News for four decades, personally distributing it door-to-door to keep residents informed in this predominantly African-American neighborhood. 

Throughout his years of service, Robinson received recognition for his achievements from various organizations, including the Northern Virginia Branch of the Washington Urban League, Arlington Branch of the NAACP, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and the prestigious William L. Winston Award from the Arlington County Bar Foundation. He played a vital role in the planning of the Arlington County Action Program in the 1960s. John Robinson, Jr. passed away in 2010 at the age of 75. In 2020, the Arlington County Board officially named the town square in Green Valley as the John Robinson, Jr. Town Square in tribute to his legacy.