Remembering 9/11: Honoring Heroes Through Volunteer Service

Every September 11th, as the nation pauses to remember the tragic events of 2001, United Way of Palm Beach County honors the heroes who selflessly sacrificed their lives to save others. In a tribute to their legacy of helping those who needed it most, we unite our community in a county-wide day of service, dedicating our efforts to support our neighbors in need. This year, in partnership with over 200 corporate and community volunteers, we facilitated five inspiring projects, each embodying the spirit of unity, compassion, and service displayed on September 11, 2001.

Here is what happened:

• Over 30 volunteers, including members of the Westlake Preparatory School basketball team and Literacy AmeriCorps, generously devoted their time to transforming the home of Ms. Dixon, a 93-year-old Palm Beach County resident, by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Through their collaborative efforts, they breathed new life into Ms. Dixon’s beautiful home.
• Nine volunteers from Literacy AmeriCorps assembled heartfelt care packages for the brave military service members supported by the Forgotten Soldiers. Within these care packages, they packed toiletries, hygiene items, and an assortment of snacks and goodies. These care packages serve as our way of expressing deep gratitude and thanks to some of our community’s greatest heroes, reminding them that their sacrifices are not forgotten.
• Several Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, Palm Beach County employees, and over 75 students from Palm Beach Atlantic University showcased their creativity by creating Stars of Hope. The Stars of Hope created by both of these inspirational groups of volunteers will shine brightly in the hearts of our dedicated first responders in Palm Beach County, honoring them for their unwavering commitment to making our community a safer and more secure place.
• 60 employees from the TBC Corporation volunteered to assemble 911 school supply kits full of essential goodies to help local students excel this school year. The school supply kits have been donated to our incredible partner agencies, The Lord’s Place, Adopt-A-Family of the Palm Beaches, CROS Ministries, Farmworker Council, and For The Children, to help Palm Beach County students learn and succeed.

With the help of all our volunteers, we’ve touched the lives of hundreds of Palm Beach County residents as we recognize and remember all the people touched by the tragedy that occurred on September 11, 2001. We extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every volunteer who contributed their time, energy, and compassion to make this day a success. Your generosity is what fuels our mission, and we look forward to continuing this journey of service together.

Click here to watch a TikTok video of all the volunteer projects!