Those of us who were alive on September 11, 2001, will never forget that day.  Whether we witnessed it on television, from the streets of Manhattan or D.C., or from farther away, it was horrifying to see the tragedy unfold on that bright and beautiful day.

What We Can Do to Remember

I’ve given up the thought of ever forgetting, and I try to remember the importance of doing what I can to help others. Today with the clean-up from Hurricane Harvey still ongoing, and Hurricane Irma barreling down on Florida, it is easy to see there are so many things to do.

I always tell people, “Just choose something you like to do.  That task will be just right.” Even if you live far from the places where the hurricanes have hit, there are plenty of opportunities in each of our communities. Just pick one:

• If you’re worried about the homeless in your community, volunteer to help at a soup kitchen—one day or all year.
• Thinking about the elderly?  Meals on Wheels always needs volunteers to help out.
• Thinking of the soldiers who have joined the military to help keep our nation strong? Then check into Wounded Warriors or a local program that serves veterans in your area.
• Are you good at math?  Why not check to see if anyone in your town runs a program that needs volunteer tutors.
• If literacy is your concern, call your library.  A good number of libraries run excellent literacy programs staffed by well-trained volunteers.
• Your love of animals may seem less serious in light of human tragedy, but it’s still important. Volunteer to be a dog walker for an animal shelter. There is nothing you can do that is trivial. 

If none of these ideas seem right, visit Volunteer Match where you may find an organization in your area looking for your particular expertise.

If time is at a premium, don’t worry.  Organizations can always use cash. I’m particularly taken right now with Donors Choose, an organization that lets teachers post very specific classroom needs.  It’s organized geographically so you are able to select a school near you.  The teachers and students are very good at saying thank you.

Vote!

And no matter what you do, vote every time an election opportunity comes around.  In our country, power really does belong to the people.  We just need to take advantage of it to keep our country strong.