Take a Day to Remember and Serve

This year marks the 13th anniversary of September 11. Joe Daniels, President and CEO of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, published this message on 911memorial.org.

Our thoughts are once again with all those who lost loved ones on that tragic morning. We remember the names, faces, and lives of the men, women, and children who were killed, and look for ways to ensure that each and every one of them is not forgotten. As we commemorate here at the Memorial, we invite you to join us in remembering September 11 and all that this day means.

There are numerous ways to participate in the annual commemoration and one of the most powerful is performing acts of service in your communities in remembrance of the victims of 9/11. When you choose to commemorate the anniversary of 9/11, you are playing an important part in memorializing those who were killed, honoring the sacrifices of the first responders, and remembering the spirit of unity that emerged in the aftermath of 9/11.

Here are some ways to honor the memory of those who were killed on September 11, 2001:

Educate

Teachers and students can organize service projects within their classrooms that are dedicated to the victims of 9/11 to help educate children about the events of that day.

Honor First Responders

Write letters of appreciation or contact your local fire or police department to see how you can help.

Provide for those in need

Organize a clothing and food drive for a community in need.

Help prepare your community

Collect supplies for and distribute emergency preparedness kits.

Show appreciation for the troops

Create care packages for those who serve our country.

Support a green initiative

Clean a local park or plant a tree.

Educate your community

Organize a demonstration of local EMTs or search and rescue dogs to spread awareness of their hard work and commitment to serve the public.

Donate your time

Volunteer at a shelter to provide meals for those in need.

Build your own memorial

Plant a garden, paint a mural or dedicate a bench to the victims of 9/11.

Participate in the National Day of Service and Remembrance

Since 2001, individuals and organizations have responded to 9/11 with service and volunteer efforts, many supporting the philanthropic wishes and interests of those killed on 9/11. In 2009, this work was formally acknowledged and supported with the establishment of the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Organized by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNRS), a federal agency, the official page can be found at serve.gov/sept11.asp. Download tool kits for the National Day of Service and Remembrance that offer resources for “do-it-yourself” and age-appropriate discussions around service and 9/11.