A unique and deeply personal experience for all, the events of September 11th, 2001, have culminated in a National Day of Service and Remembrance that engages volunteers in charitable service as an annual and forward-looking tribute to the victims, survivors, and those who rose up in service in response to the attacks.

In a memorial food-packaging event sponsored by the Illini Union Office of Volunteer Programs, Interfaith in Action, and Illini Fighting Hunger, 64 volunteers remembered the lives of those who perished thirteen years ago. In their memory, volunteers packaged 950lbs. of rice, 1,200lbs. of pinto beans, and 520lbs. of elbow macaroni to be distributed at next week’s Wesley Evening Food Pantry to assist those facing food insecurity.

We are continually amazed and sincerely grateful for the support of our volunteers, and we were humbled by the stories shared of why people came out to volunteer that night. A great thank you to all of our volunteers, past and future, for serving your community and helping to make the world a better place for all.