NEMCSA joins AmeriCorps and 9/11Day.org to commemorate the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks by gathering volunteers together to collect donations for local non-profit agencies serving those experiencing homelessness and seniors in Alpena and Rogers City.

Volunteers and staff from NEMCSA’s Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) will commemorate the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by joining in patriotic acts of volunteer service as part of the Sept. 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, commonly known as 9/11 Day.

It’s been more than 20 years since the 9/11 tragedy. To honor and commemorate the anniversary of this solemn moment in our history – now recognized as a National Day of Service and Remembrance – community members are asked to pay tribute to those we lost and the many who rose in service on that fateful day by rekindling the spirit of compassion and volunteer service that unified our nation.

The events of 9/11 and the heroism of our first responders inspired thousands of people to get involved and ultimately, led to the birth of the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, founded by the nonprofit 9/11 Day with the support of the 9/11 community, AmeriCorps, and bipartisan leaders in Congress. Many voluntarily enlisted during wartime and knowingly risked their lives to protect our country, while others found their calling in national and civic service.

“As we reflect on 9/11, it is important to remember that community service is a powerful act of remembrance and unity,” Rick Houchin, NEMCSA RSVP project director and event planner, said. “By selflessly giving back to our communities, we honor the lives lost and help create a brighter future built on compassion and solidarity.”

To promote community service in the region, NEMCSA RSVP volunteers and staff will hold two events in the area this week:

Today, volunteers and RSVP staff will accept donations at The Rogers City Senior Center located at 131 Superior Street, Rogers City from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The items collected will go towards creating a community food pantry in the Rogers City Senior Center. Items needed include shelf-stable food items such as canned goods, rice, peanut butter, pasta, nuts, oats, applesauce, crackers, etc.

On Wednesday, volunteers will be accepting donations for NEMCSA’s Homeless and Prevention’s Kindness Closet in front of WATZ Radio Station, 123 Prentiss Street in Alpena from 10am1pm. All donated items will be provided to individuals and households that are currently experiencing homelessness or are exiting homelessness and restarting in a brand-new to them housing unit. Items needed include paper towel and toilet paper, towels (bath, hand, dish, kitchen, washcloths), personal hygiene products, disinfectant cleaners, shower curtains, liners, rings, rods, can openers, laundry baskets, plungers and toilet brushes, mops and buckets, soaps (hand, dish, laundry), dryer sheets, brooms and dustpans, wastebaskets and liners/bags (kitchen and bathroom), silverware, cups, plates, and bowls.