AmeriCorps Members to Volunteer on 9-11

September 11 was designated as a National Day of Service and Remembrance in 2009.  This year marks the ten-year anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy. The day will be marked by a variety of service projects throughout the country, state and here in the Southern Tier.  The 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance has become an important way to offset the negative impact of the events of that day.

Locally, the AmeriCorps Kids First Initiative (ACKF) will have AmeriCorps members and agency staff working with the young people they serve in youth-serving agencies, such as the Corning Area Youth Center.    They will be facilitating discussions with young people about what happened on 9/11, why it happened, and its impact.  There will be reflections on a variety of related questions and themes, such as tolerance, violence in our society, freedom, and diversity.   

Michael Mann, ACKF Initiative program director, stated, “This project will fit very well into our AmeriCorps Kids First Initiative program focus on making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.  By prompting a healthy discussion around this topic, youth will be more informed and aware citizens in their local communities, and hopefully spread this knowledge in their home, church, community, or school.”

Christine Bullard ACKF member, said "though many of the youth we serve were toddlers when 9/11 occurred, its impact is still felt to this day. It's important to discuss the issues that have risen due to this tragic event with the youth so that it can be prevented in the future.”

We hope that as a member of our community you team up to make a difference not only on September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, but perhaps also as a first step toward a longer term commitment to volunteering. Contributing your time to a cause you believe in helps your neighbors and yourself.  To connect with opportunities that may interest you, dial 2-1-1 or visit www.211helpline.org.

AmeriCorps Kids First Initiative is a program of The Institute for Human Services, Inc.

Help starts with 2-1-1.  2-1-1 HELPLINE is your community resource for information about programs, services and volunteer opportunities.  Dial 2-1-1 or visit www.211helpline.org, 24/7, year-round.  Organizations wishing to include their services or volunteer opportunities in our database are urged to contact 2-1-1 HELPLINE for more information. 2-1-1 HELPLINE is a service of The Institute for Human Services, Inc.