Never forget: Rekindle American unity by volunteering on 9/11 National Day of Service

More than two decades after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, 9/11 is more than just a day to "Never Forget": It's a day of service.

After seeing how Americans came together in unity in the days and weeks after the tragedy, 9/11 was established as a day of service and remembrance and has since become federally recognized and developed into the largest service day in the U.S.

In honor of the 9/11 National Day of Service this year, the Michigan Community Service Commission has issued nearly $16,000 in grants to 14 Michigan organizations that help to support veterans and combat hunger, homelessness, and other community needs. As a result, the organizations are hosting volunteer projects to involve their local communities on the 9/11 National Day of Service.

“Serving others is a wonderful way to untie individuals and strengthen communities to restore the spirit of kind-heartedness that followed the 9/11 tragedy,” said the commission's executive director, Ginna Holmes. “We encourage everyone to find a way to volunteer and make a difference.”

More: Eyewitness to history: A firsthand account of the day that changed New York City, nation

Here are 10 volunteer opportunities around the state on or after Sept. 11, 2024, for individuals to reunite with their neighbors on the 9/11 National Day of Service.

Volunteer opportunities on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024:

• Alpena : Youth volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club Alpena will make a meal and host activities for seniors and veterans at risk for hunger. Contact bgcalpena@gmail.com for information.
• Detroit: The Wayne State University - AmeriCorps Climate READY is working on a Garden Project to cultivate environmental stewardship throughout Wayne County by creating a 35-by-50-foot rain garden in the Jefferson-Chalmers community. Contact dsmith.climateready@gmail.com for information.
• Grand Rapids: Volunteers for Cherry Health will harvest fresh garden foods and pack meals for young people experiencing food insecurity. Contact kayladoyle@cherryhealth.com.
• Holly : The United Way of Genesee County - Flint National Service Accelerator will clean up the Great Lakes National Cemetery and tell stories and reflections on the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Contact lcrawford@unitedwaygenesee.org for information.
• Lansing : Volunteers for the Allen Neighborhood Center will harvest and distribute food from the edible garden to individuals with food insecurity as a part of the Breakbasket Food Pantry. Contact ethans@allenneighorhoodcenter.org for information.
• Lansing: Volunteers for Edgewood Village Network Center will work on garden construction and cleanup. Contact m.crawford@edgewoodvillage.net for information.
• Marquette: Volunteers are needed for an emergency food delivery service and activities promoting an event by the United Way of Marquette County. Contact arickaeur@uwmqt.org for information.
• Traverse City: Volunteers for Peace Ranch will clear riding stalls, stain a cabin, and perform other small beautification projects to enhance the experience of veterans and others seeking a therapeutic riding experience. Contact sarna@ecoseeds.org for information.

More: My memories of 9/11 from a Manhattan newsroom 20 years ago

Volunteer opportunities after Sept. 11, 2024:

• Bloomfield: Juniors from three International Academy campuses will volunteer at Forgotten Harvest Farm, The Children's Center, Grace Centers of Hope, and Gleaners. International Academy freshmen will stay on campus to create blankets and treat bags for The Children's Center and blankets for Gift of Life Michigan. The International Academy's Days of Service will take place on Sept. 18, Sept. 24, and Sept. 27. Contact lbelotti@bloomfield.org for more information.
• Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana: Volunteers for United Way of Lakeshore will help do home repairs for 11 senior and veteran homes, work in a food pantry and install a trail for the community to enjoy, on Friday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 14. Contact sara@unitedwaylakeshore.org for more information.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Never forget: Rekindle American unity by volunteering on 9/11 National Day of Service