9/11 Day of Service Unites Americans in Remembrance and Volunteerism

Twenty-three years after the September 11 terrorist attacks, the anniversary has been transformed into a powerful symbol of unity and service in America. The 9/11 Day nonprofit, founded in 2002, has successfully established September 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance, now recognized under federal law as the largest annual day of charitable engagement in U.S. history.

This year, more than 30 million Americans are expected to participate in the 9/11 Day observance through various acts of service and remembrance. Volunteers will engage in local nonprofit work, make charitable donations, or simply spend time in remembrance of those lost. Thousands of corporations, nonprofits, schools, and elected officials will join in, recreating the spirit of compassion that emerged in the aftermath of the tragedy.

David Paine, president and co-founder of 9/11 Day, emphasized the importance of unity on this day, stating, "There's no better way for all Americans to honor those killed and injured on 9/11, and the many who rose in service in response to the attacks, than for all of us and our governmental leaders to put aside our differences for at least a day and join together in unity to help others in need."

One of the signature initiatives of 9/11 Day is the "Meal Packs for 9/11 Day" project, which has expanded to 21 cities across America in 2024. Over 30,000 volunteers are expected to assemble more than eight million non-perishable meals for Americans at risk of hunger. These meals will be donated to local Feeding America-affiliated food banks in observance of September's "Hunger Action Month."

The meal packing events are supported by a federal grant from AmeriCorps and the participation of more than 500 corporations. Major corporate partners include Reliance, Inc., Delta Air Lines, JPMorgan Chase, Pfizer, Citi, Tractor Supply Company, and others. Individuals interested in volunteering can find more information at 911day.org/volunteer.

Recognizing the need to educate younger generations about 9/11, the nonprofit has developed new educational resources for teachers. These free materials, available at 911day.org/teachers, aim to inspire service in classrooms and communities on September 11.

Additionally, 9/11 Day is supporting service activities for college students across 11 campuses, where students will pack nearly one million meals for those in need in their local communities. The organization is also providing grants to youth-focused organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the National Youth Leadership Council to involve over 3,200 youths in service projects nationwide.

As the 23rd anniversary of 9/11 approaches, the day has evolved into a remarkable demonstration of national unity and service. By engaging millions of Americans in acts of kindness and volunteerism, 9/11 Day continues to honor the memory of those lost while fostering a spirit of compassion and unity that transcends political and social divides.