National Day of Service and Remembrance Rekindles Compassionate Spirit of American People While Honoring Those Affected by 9/11

September 9, 2009

With the eighth anniversary of September 11th upon us, it is important to remember the victims and their families, the first responders and rescue workers, the many volunteers who immediately assisted, and the soldiers who continue to defend American freedom and safety. The most fitting way for us to pay tribute to these citizens is by helping others in need, capturing the unified spirit of our country.

This year America will celebrate its first National Day of Service and Remembrance on Sept. 11. Earlier this year, President Obama signed into law the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act (H.R.1388), which establishes this day as not just one for reflection and remembrance, but one for connecting with our neighbors, community and country -- by taking a tragic event and turning it into a force for good. Senator Kennedy was an exemplary figure for community service, making this year’s first celebration of the National Day of Service a fitting tribute to the late senator.

“We live in an area where volunteerism is already second nature and I salute the many people already giving. I urge everyone in our community to volunteer by performing at least one good deed or service as a way to remember and honor our country’s spirit.” Assemblyman Cahill said. Many citizens with specialized skills such as plumbers, mechanics, electricians, lawyers, doctors and others plan to donate their services to families and non-profit organizations in need. But specific skills are not required. In fact, most of the New Yorkers who have pledged to volunteer are ordinary people who wish to share their time. Locally, community organizations, gardens, soup kitchens, schools, nursing homes, and libraries are some of the places residents can lend their time. Nationally, the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Citizen Corps, Youth Service American and others accept volunteers to help with numerous varied tasks.

The National Day of Service and Remembrance will help create a lasting, living and forward-looking legacy that honors the victims and those who volunteered on that tragic day eight years ago. Millions of Americans are expected to participate in what will likely be the single largest day of service in our country’s history, rekindling the unified spirit of compassion that was exemplified in the aftermath of Sept. 11. The way in which we came together and continue to do so is a reminder of what it means to be American.

To find out how you can volunteer, view and share volunteering ideas or to learn more visit the 9/11 Day of Service Web site or www.nationalservice.gov. Another resource is the New York State Commission on National and Community Service Web site at www.newyorkersvolunteer.ny.gov/. For local information visit www.ulstercorps.org and www.ucvolunteers.org or call my office for information about volunteering opportunities at (845) 338-9610.

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