Twenty-four years after the Sept. 11 attacks, the wounds still feel fresh for many Americans. One local organization has found a new way to channel grief into something positive — turning the anniversary into a day of service that honors the memory of those lost while strengthening the community.
Serve Park City, founded by Karen Marriott of Park City Humanitarians, has grown from a small group of volunteers to a network of community organizations. Each year, they coordinate dozens of service projects on the weekend closest to the 9/11 date.
“We believe in building community through service,” Marriott said. “This is a day that connects all members of the community, so that they come together and serve and feel more connected.
This year, the event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday at City Park. There will also be a complimentary breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by the brief program in remembrance of 9/11.
“I am so very thankful to Karen for approaching me a year and a half ago at a Peace House event and sharing her vision for both the Park City Humanitarians and the Serve Park City Day of Service,” said Danny Glasser, co-chair of Serve Park City. “Her invitation to join her on this journey served as a call to action for me to join this effort. I am very passionate about being an active member of our community and about giving of my time to support our community as a whole. I also love how both Park City Humanitarians and Serve Park City bring our community together.”
Volunteers in and around Park City can sign up for a project on JustServe.org.
This year’s lineup includes 35 projects designed to address the community’s most pressing needs. Teams will work at local food pantries or spend time with animals at Nuzzles & Co. Others will beautify local buildings, such as the Park City Library, with inside-out cleanup or painting.
The day of service has become more than just volunteer work. It’s a way for people from different backgrounds to come together around shared values.
“Taking part in Serve Park City last year really meant a lot to me,” said Tommy Nutting, owner of the Park City Paint Crew. “I’ve been lucky to call Park City home for over 25 years, and this community has given me so much, both in my personal life and through my business. I truly love this place and the people here. Giving back with Park City Paint Crew was just a small way to show my appreciation.”
The day of service is supported by several sponsors. Hill Top Hospitality is fueling volunteers with breakfast burritos, while The Market is donating fresh fruit. Bagel Den is providing coffee, and Jill Murwin of Chasing Atlas Travel will provide snacks. Julie Hopkins, a local realtor, plans to add a sweet touch to the event by bringing doughnuts.
“It is important to note that you can find service projects in the Park City area and ways to serve on the Just Serve platform all year,” Marriott said.