9/11 Anniversary & Commemoration

"The hero is commonly the simplest and obscurest of men."
—Henry David Thoreau

"The attacks of September 11th were intended to break our spirit. Instead we have emerged stronger and more unified. We feel renewed devotion to the principles of political, economic and religious freedom, the rule of law and respect for human life. We are more determined than ever to live our lives in freedom."
—Rudolph W. Giuliani, Former Mayor of the City of New York

The September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance was established into law by the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act in 2009. Due in large part to the efforts of family members of the victims, it was a way to pay tribute and honor the sacrifice of their loved ones. It is estimated that over 1 million Americans will be involved in service projects in their communities on this day. This "joining together" serves as a reminder of how Americans joined together in the aftermath of the attacks.

Many of our students today, were either not born on 9/11/2001 or were too young to remember it. This anniversary would be an appropriate time to educate our students on the importance of being an active part of their community and how people of all ages can make an impact.

Some community service projects your students may be interested in getting involved with are:

• Support a local food bank
• Organize a clothing drive
• Begin a letter writing campaign for our military serving at home and abroad
• Collect and send care packages to local military units
• Plant a community garden
• Visit veterans in a local VA hospital or facility
• Bring food/snacks to your local fire house or police station