Revitalize Community Garden Beds: 9/11 Week of Service [HIL]

The September 11 Week of Service and Remembrance is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices made on that day by remembering the heroes, armed forces, first responders, and countless others whose acts of courage and service helped defend our nation's freedom. Through service, we pay tribute to those we lost and carry forward the spirit of unity, compassion, and community that emerged in the aftermath of September 11.
United Way Suncoast is proud to offer this volunteer opportunity with New Life Village as part of our annual 9/11 Week of Service & Remembrance. New Life Village provides a residential community where families seeking permanency for children impacted by foster care or trauma can seek healing in a safe and stable intergenerational Village. By volunteering, you will help transform the community garden into the Garden of Hope, creating a vibrant space where children and families can learn, grow, and build lasting memories.
The day will begin with a brief remembrance ceremony honoring the lives lost on September 11 and recognizing the courage and sacrifice of first responders, military members, and community heroes. We hope to welcome local firefighters, law enforcement, and other community partners to participate in the ceremony and serve alongside our families throughout the day. By serving alongside resident families and first responders, volunteers will help create a meaningful and lasting tribute to the spirit of service and unity that emerged following September 11.

Volunteer Tasks

• Clean up and revitalize community garden beds
• Plant seasonal vegetables and pollinator-friendly flowers
• Paint inspirational garden rocks and assist with decorative garden projects
• Create garden signage and help prepare the space for future family programming

This project is designed to leave a lasting impact beyond the day of service. Throughout the fall, New Life Village families will continue to care for and harvest from the Garden of Hope, using the produce they grow for future family-centered cooking experiences and celebrations.
Youth 11-15 can volunteer with a guardian and youth 16+ can volunteer without a guardian. (Youth 11-12 will need to be added as a "guest" under the guardians registration)
Thank you for volunteering and helping us honor the legacy of service associated with September 11.