On September 11, 2026, Emerald Hills Institute Youth led a meaningful service project honoring the memory of 9/11 while supporting unsheltered youth in our community.
Designed as a youth engagement initiative, the project gave young participants an active role in organizing, preparing, and carrying out a day of remembrance through service. Made possible by a Youth Engagement Grant from 9/11 Day, the event brought together nearly 20 volunteers to assemble 30 care backpacks for young people served by the Volunteers of America, Utah Youth Resource Center.
Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill and Salt Lake City FBI Community Engagement Representative joined the youth for a reflective conversation, sharing his personal memories of September 11 and discussing its lasting impact. The young participants asked questions, shared their thoughts, and explored how compassion, understanding, and community service can help overcome fear, division, and animosity.
Following the discussion, EHI Youth and volunteers filled the backpacks with shoes, hygiene products, notebooks, treats, and other practical and comforting items. The youth later delivered the completed backpacks to the Youth Resource Center.
This project was more than a donation drive—it was an opportunity for young people from diverse faiths and backgrounds to learn, lead, serve, and connect remembrance with meaningful action.
Emerald Hills Institute extends its sincere appreciation to 9/11 Day.org, EHI Youth, and all the volunteers who made this youth-led initiative possible.
