9/11 Day Transforms Anniversary into Largest U.S. Service Event

Twenty-three years after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the anniversary has evolved into a powerful symbol of unity and service in America. The nonprofit organization 9/11 Day has successfully transformed the day into the largest annual day of service in U.S. history, a milestone that is now recognized under federal law.

This year, more than 30 million Americans are expected to participate in various activities to commemorate 9/11. These activities range from volunteering through local non-profits, faith-based groups, and employers, to making charitable donations and engaging in personal acts of kindness. This collective effort aims to honor those lost in the attacks and the many who rose in service in response.

David Paine, president and co-founder of 9/11 Day, emphasized the importance of setting aside differences for at least one day to help others in need. “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,” Paine stated.

One of the significant initiatives this year is the 'Meal Packs for 9/11 Day,' which has expanded to 21 cities across America. More than 30,000 volunteers are expected to participate, assembling over eight million non-perishable meals for Americans at risk of hunger. These efforts are supported by a federal grant from AmeriCorps and will benefit local Feeding America-affiliated food banks in observance of September's 'Hunger Action Month.'

Corporate participation is also notable, with over 500 companies contributing to the 9/11 Day Meal Pack events. Major corporate partners include Reliance, Inc., Delta Air Lines, JPMorgan Chase, Pfizer, and Tractor Supply Company, among others. This collective corporate engagement underscores the day’s significance as the largest single day of corporate volunteerism in the nation.

The expansion of 9/11 Day's initiatives highlights the ongoing efforts to teach new generations about the significance of the day. With nearly 100 million Americans born since 2001, 9/11 Day has developed educational materials to help teachers inspire service in their classrooms. These resources are available free of charge at 911day.org/teachers.

In addition, college students across the country are also involved, with partnerships established at 11 campuses to pack nearly one million meals for those in need. This initiative is part of a broader effort supported by AmeriCorps to engage young people in meaningful acts of service.

AmeriCorps funding is also being utilized to support organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the National Youth Leadership Council, and the Young Men's Service League. These grants will involve over 3,200 youths in 60 events nationwide, further expanding the reach and impact of 9/11 Day.

Established in 2002, 9/11 Day led the initiative to designate September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance under the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act in 2009. This federal recognition has helped cement September 11 as the largest annual day of charitable engagement in U.S. history, inspiring millions to contribute positively to their communities.