Governor Lamont Highlights Volunteer Opportunities Available as Part of the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance

Nationwide Meal-Packing Events for Families Facing Food Insecurity Will Mark the 25^th Anniversary of the 2001 Terrorist Attacks

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Ned Lamont, the Connecticut Office of Higher Education, and Serve Connecticut today are highlighting a nationwide volunteer activity that is being held throughout the United States as part of the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, a federally recognized day marking the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks that encourages Americans to turn remembrance into charitable volunteering and good deeds.

On Friday, September 11, 2026, approximately 50,000 volunteers in communities across the U.S. are expected to donate their time as part of this National Day of Service by packing millions of meals that will be donated to individuals and families facing food insecurity. Two of these large-scale, meal-packing events will be held in Connecticut, including one in Hartford at PeoplesBank Area and the other in Bridgeport at The Redline Room.

"September 11 is a day when Americans remember not only the tremendous loss our country experienced, but also the extraordinary sense of unity and service that followed," Governor Lamont said. "Twenty-five years later, service has the power to bring people together, and that spirit is at the heart of how our nation responded in the days and months following September 11."

"Volunteering is a meaningful way for Connecticut residents to honor those we lost and demonstrate that same commitment to helping one another," Higher Education Commissioner Timothy D. Larson said. "These events give Connecticut residents an opportunity to work side by side to help neighbors facing food insecurity. I encourage individuals, families, organizations and employers across the state to get involved."

Volunteers, aged 18 or older, are encouraged to join event support teams at both Connecticut events. Support team members assist with setting up the event, checking in volunteers, keeping packing lines supplied, boxing meals, and helping with other responsibilities that keep the events running smoothly. No previous experience is required, and training is provided.

"The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance transforms the anniversary of 9/11 into a day of doing good and encourages Americans to honor those lost and those who responded by serving their communities," Kate Scheuritzel, director of programs with Serve Connecticut, said. "We at Serve Connecticut, the Connecticut Commission on Community Service, cannot wait to see the outpour of service and support amongst Connecticut residents as they volunteer to support their communities for 9/11 Day."

Individuals and groups may register to participate. Additional volunteer opportunities and community service projects are also available beyond September 11.

To volunteer:

• Hartford Meal Pack Event Support Team: Register here
• Bridgeport Meal Pack Event Support Team: Register here
• Additional 9/11 Day volunteer opportunities: 911day.org/volunteer

Serve Connecticut is also known as the Connecticut Commission on Community Service. The office administers service programs in the state and promotes volunteerism and increased civic engagement.