I have struggled with how to explain September 11th to my children ever since they were old enough to understand that something big and terrible happened that day nine years ago.
I still struggle, but now that this has also become a National Day of Service, I like the idea that my family can honor the day by doing something good for a charity in need.
Last year, we learned of 911DayofService.org, a website that was created to give people a place to share their service projects with others, or to find an organization in the community that can use volunteer services.
They still makes it easy to find a local group in several different categories, though it’s likely that you’ll have to contact that group directly for specific volunteer options. Still, I love that I can promote my good deeds on their website, or via Facebook and Twitter to really get the message out among my family and friends and maybe get others involved too.
One helpful new feature on 911DayofService.org is their new Lesson Plans section. Created in partnership with Scholastic,
the lesson plans are a great way for parents and teachers alike to
discuss what happened on 9/11 in an age-appropriate way through
storytelling, music and discussion.
As for us, my own family plans to lift couch cushions and crack piggy banks for
Pennies for the Planet and collect our outgrown shoes to send to kids who need them through
Soles4Souls. Two effective, easy things we can do, and a productive way for me to channel all the emotion of the day. –
Christina
Visit 911DayofService.org for volunteer opportunities and lesson plans. Check out our Causes category on Cool Mom Picks for even more ideas for ways you can help.
How do you plan on honoring 9/11? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
[photo: christina refford]
What a great way to commemorate the day. I have been looking for ways to connect with the community on 9/11 and I think 911dayofservice.org is the perfect place to get ideas of where to start. Thanks so much for the info!