Early this month, volunteers across the country came together to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by joining in acts of volunteer service as part of the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance, commonly known as 9/11 Day.
9/11 Day is a chance to recapture the spirit of unity that swept the nation in the aftermath of 9/11, while paying tribute with acts of service to those lost on September 11, 2001. September 11th was designated a National Day of Service by Congress in 2009 and is led by AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service.
In honor of 9/11 Day, Conservation Nebraska AmeriCorps members organized and participated in service projects across the state.
A group of members located in Lincoln, lead by AmeriCorps Conservation Director Peggy Apthorpe, organized a clean-up of Cooper Park. The small, but mighty, group of volunteers set to work on Saturday morning cleaning up litter, downed branches, and other out-of-place items.
“9/11 meant so much to all of us. It changed the way we think and do things…it was a shocking and terribly sad time for our country. If there was good to be found, it was in how all of us came together to mourn and support our country and those who defend and care for it.”
Members in Omaha volunteered their time at the Nebraska Humane Society, where they helped staff with a variety of tasks. Other members across the state participated in random acts of kindness.
Volunteerism and service renews and strengthens communities, families, and ourselves. As communities across the country face challenges, it is imperative that we don’t turn inward, but instead create common cause. Taking the principles of 9/11 Day: honor, serve, unite and practicing them everyday.
“Public service is a necessity not many think about. It’s just one small, good thing to do, even if most people won’t notice.”