LIHU‘E — Several hundred people spent part of their day reflecting on the 9/11 tragedy with members of the Kaua‘i Retired and Senior Volunteer Program and other service organization members on Monday during the special 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance at Kukui Grove Center.
“May the memory of these brave men and women inspire us to be ever-vigilant, resilient in the face of adversity and compassionate in our interactions with one another,” said Gov. Josh Green in a message delivered by his Kaua‘i liaison Dana Hazelton before a crowd that also included first responders.
The 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance was born out of the observance on Sept. 11 through a moment of silence, the flying of the American flag at half staff, and the performance of community service and charitable activities in tribute and remembrance.
“This year marks 22 years since 9/11, and we continue to honor the sacrifices made on that day by remembering the heroes, the armed forces, first responders and the countless others and their acts of service to defend our nation’s freedom,” said Kaua‘i Executive on Aging Kealoha Takahashi.
“The community is encouraged to honor, serve and unite by engaging in service, especially on this day of remembrance.”
Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Milani Pimental said disasters are not just 9/11 or Hurricane Iniki. The North Shore floods, and the more recent Aug. 8 wildfires on Maui led to similar acts of community service in response to the disaster.
Monday’s 9/11 special project by Kaua‘i RSVP partnered with Kukui Grove Center and the Kaua‘i Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster where both food banks on Kaua‘i are members.
The Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i reminded people of the ongoing radiothon put on by the Pacific Media Group, and the Sheraton Kaua‘i Coconut Beach to raise funds supporting the Hawai‘i Foodbank Maui in its wildfires relief.
Other agencies like the Kaua‘i Fire Department talked about fire prevention. Fire prevention is taking place in October, the same month that Rebecca Carnate and the Kaua‘i Economic Opportunity is planning to hold a big health fair.
