On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Meetup is partnering with the 9/11 Day nonprofit organization to promote 20 million good deeds across the country. In an act of healing and kindness, millions of Americans will be mobilized to rekindle the spirit of unity that arose in the aftermath of that fateful day. By volunteering to do good deeds throughout local communities from coast to coast, you can take part in a selfless and inspiring demonstration of nationwide solidarity.
How the course of Meetup’s history was shaped by 9/11
On September 11, 2001, Meetup Founder Scott Heiferman was living in New York. In the wake of those devastating attacks, he became closer with his neighbors through a shared experience of grief and support. In his own words, Scott says, “9/11 was a terrifying day, intended to scare us into hiding inside in fear. Instead, I saw New Yorkers get outside and get together as neighbors.”
The fellowship, camaraderie, and random acts of kindness seen throughout the following weeks inspired Scott to create a platform that would help people connect and experience life together. The idea was to “use the internet to get people off the internet.” When new friends and neighbors come together through Meetup, they’re less lonely, more powerful, and capable of making great things happen.
What does the 9/11 Day organization do?
Since 2002, 9/11 Day has honored the spirit of togetherness and compassion that brought so many people solace during some of the country’s darkest days. The organization helped establish the anniversary of the attacks as a federally-recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance (“9/11 Day”).
Through their efforts, September 11 has become more than just a day where we commemorate a national tragedy. Instead, 9/11 Day also represents the act of putting aside differences and working hand in hand to build a better future. From neighborhood cleanups and food drives to fundraising for veterans groups and COVID relief programs, the 9/11 Day organization helps mobilize volunteers in every area of society.
How Meetup will help achieve the goal of 20 million good deeds
20 million good deeds may seem like a lot—that’s because it is! 9/11 Day sets a high bar because they know our community is up to the task. Meetup is encouraging our 55 million members to sign up for a volunteering event, or to host one of their own, on September 11.
The Meetup website will update its homepage banner to put our mission front and center, remind everyone of the 20 million good deed goal, and demonstrate how simple it is to get involved. Plus, the 9/11 Day website will direct interested volunteers to Meetup so they can easily join one of the thousands of volunteering events being organized around September 11.
Make a difference in your community and help make 20 million good deeds a reality
Whatever contribution you can make on 9/11 Day matters. 20 million good deeds begin with the individual efforts of a single person.
Participating in a volunteer event isn’t just work you do for free. It can be a fun, holistic experience where you meet lots of welcoming people who’ll be happy to have you on board. Form new friendships, learn a new skill, be active outdoors, and be 100% assured that you’re using your free time to make a positive impact on the world.
For example, you might be interested in helping an animal rescue operation run a dog adoption event, picking up litter and removing invasive plants from a beautiful public park, or checking in runners and managing food stations at a 5K fundraiser for 9/11 charities.
To find more Meetup volunteering events in any community, simply put your home town in this search bar. You can also easily organize your own Meetup group dedicated to volunteerism.
Last modified on September 3, 2021
