Honor & Remember: Ways to Participate in 9/11 National Day of Service

9/11 National Day of Service is an opportunity to turn tragedy into a day of remembrance and service. As we approach the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001, this is an opportunity to pay tribute to the lives of those lost and injured, as well as create a new moment of meaning on this day.

Here are a few ways that you can participate in this day of remembrance and help make the world a better, kinder place.

Teach youth about the significance of this day with 9/11 Day lesson plans 

Currently, young people were not even born when 9/11 happened, and many under 25 years old were too young to remember the experience. Fortunately, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum website is offering free educational resources to teachers. Additionally, 9/11 created a  9/11 Day Lesson Plan to be used for both virtual and in-person learning. If you’re a teacher, utilize the website for some helpful tools to share the importance of this day with your students.

Take action with DIY toolkits for first responders

On this historic day in 2001, first responders bravely provided emergency services to thousands across the Northeast United States and throughout the nation. These essential workers helped ensure that critical needs were met, often working constant overtime to show up and help. Now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, essential workers are still providing services to communities everywhere. Why not recognize their efforts through a food and thank you note drive or by mailing out letters of support and encouragement?

Get your virtual volunteer toolkit as an employer or nonprofit 

Often, corporations and nonprofits are looking for ways to engage their employees and provide them with opportunities to help. The 9/11 Day website has a variety of toolkits tailored to these specific needs. Find ways to inspire your employees to take part in virtual volunteering, download logos for your marketing materials and more.

Join the 9/11 Day in Packing 2.5 Million Meals

On Sept. 11, 9/11 Day is organizing meal packing events in the following cities: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco, St. Louis, New York City (Saturday), New York City (Sunday), and Washington, D.C. Click on the city of your choice to learn more about the event and register to volunteer.

Find opportunities through the Points of Light Global Network or Engage

Points of Light partners with a network of innovative volunteer-mobilizing organizations located in 38 countries around the world. The Global Network offers idea sharing around creative, impactful and inspiring ways for people to engage in their communities, so search for an organization near you to find out more. And stop by our Engage platform to identify in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities near you.