Since 2002, nonprofit 9/11 Day has transformed remembrance into meaningful service, inviting Americans to honor those lost in the September 11, 2001 attacks by helping others.
Tens of millions of people participate each year through volunteer projects and simple acts of kindness. As the nation observes the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the organization hopes to inspire one million good deeds by September 11.
With the support of dozens of nonprofit partners, people across the country can choose from many opportunities to contribute. Among this year’s initiatives is Together We Grow, a new collaboration with One Tree Planted that uses trees as enduring symbols of remembrance, care, and hope.
The project began on September 9 with the planting of a 15-foot willow oak in New York City’s Battery Park. The tree now stands near the Labyrinth of Contemplation, a gathering place dedicated to those who died in the attacks.
Community members and families of victims joined representatives from 9/11 Day, One Tree Planted, The Battery Conservancy, and AmeriCorps to plant the tree and renew the surrounding space. The gathering was also one of the first events held in that section of The Battery following years of waterfront restoration.
According to a press release, the occasion gave participants time to “reflect on the resilience and survival that have defined New York in the years since 9/11,” while offering a way to “remember, connect, and leave something good behind.”
The Battery Park event marked the beginning of a year-long effort to plant 3,000 trees throughout the United States. The number recognizes the 2,977 people killed on 9/11 while creating living tributes that can strengthen communities for years to come. One Tree Planted, AmeriCorps, and 9/11 Day will help participating communities carry out the project in the months ahead.
“Twenty-five years later, we continue to find ways to remember the lives that were lost and the people whose lives were forever changed,” said Hank Lynch, president and CEO of One Tree Planted.
“A tree is a simple but powerful symbol of that remembrance. It gives us a chance to honor the past while doing something good for the future. Together We Grow is about coming together, caring for a place we share, and creating something living that can continue to grow for generations.”
Beyond its partnership with 9/11 Day, One Tree Planted offers additional service opportunities and works with corporate partners on reforestation projects in the United States and around the world. The organization also allows individuals to plant a tree in memory of a loved one, with memorial trees beginning at $10.
“Each tree becomes part of something larger: a living reminder that even in the face of profound loss, we can continue to care for one another, care for the places we call home, and help something new take root,” the press release stated.
That spirit of shared compassion lies at the heart of 9/11 Day.
“On 9/11 Day, we come together to honor those we lost by caring for one another and the communities we call home,” said Jay Winuk, executive vice president and co-founder of 9/11 Day and a 9/11 family member.
“Together We Grow is a beautiful example of how service can bring people together, create connection and turn remembrance into something positive and lasting.”
Through every tree planted, neighbor helped, and generous act completed, participants are building a hopeful legacy—one rooted in connection, kindness, and care.
