#USA #Minneapolis #Community Service #September 12th #ZeroMils

Transforming 9/11 Remembrance into a Day of Service

In a poignant reflection on the 9/11 attacks that once inspired a massive call to action, the upcoming event ‘Uniting in Service Minneapolis’ seeks to resurrect that spirit of service and community engagement. Hosted by ZeroMils, a veteran-owned organization, this initiative emphasizes the importance of fostering a sense of duty within a generation that may not fully grasp the significance of this date. Scheduled for September 12, 2025, the event will take place one day after the 24th anniversary of the tragic attacks, aiming to demonstrate hands-on service as a crucial component in healing the nation’s wounds.

Following the attacks on September 11, 2001, many Americans rallied together in unprecedented ways. Military recruitment surged, and countless people engaged in civic activities and public service. However, as time has passed, that original motivation has faded. Today, those under 24 years old were born after the event, leading to a troubling disconnect from the values and responsibilities instilled by previous generations. Reports indicate significant declines in military recruitment and a general lack of engagement in community service, sparking concerns about the future of civic responsibility.

Taking place at the National Sports Center in Blaine, Minnesota, Uniting in Service Minneapolis will converge veterans, students, corporate leaders, and community volunteers with a common purpose. This gathering represents not just remembrance, but a commitment to inspire the young generation into leadership roles through active contributions to society. Kevin Schmiegel, CEO of ZeroMils and a retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, poignantly stated, “Our goal is to turn remembrance into actionable leadership and service. It’s about showing young people how thriving through service looks today.”

Activities Ahead

The event will feature various impactful activities, including a community tribute run led by ‘wear blue run to remember’ and an ambitious project packing 5,000 food bags with Blessings in a Backpack aimed at combating child hunger in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Additionally, participants can look forward to the Spartan DEKA STRONG fitness challenge, which is inclusive of all ages and fitness levels. This day serves not only as an act of remembrance but also aims to address urgent issues, such as strengthening the military’s recruitment efforts and rebuilding trust in public institutions.

In 2023, the U.S. military faced a shortfall of 41,000 recruits, highlighting the challenges faced in connecting young Americans to traditional service pathways. Although some recovery in recruitment numbers occurred by 2024, long-standing issues persist. ZeroMils research revealed that more than two-thirds of youth feel disconnected from leadership and service avenues, underscoring the necessity of events like Uniting in Service to bridge these gaps.

“Veterans offer unmatched leadership and resilience, essential qualities for modern communities,” Sean Passmore, Head of Military Veteran Initiatives at Wells Fargo, emphasized. “Investing in service means investing in the future.”

Uniting in Service Minneapolis is part of a broader movement spearheaded by ZeroMils, known as Military Thriving®. This initiative, launched in 2022, seeks to redefine societal perceptions of veterans—not as individuals marked by their past, but as leaders grounded in experience who can contribute significantly to community betterment.

In conclusion, as the nation approaches this solemn anniversary, Uniting in Service Minneapolis offers a unique opportunity to transform remembrance into a new paradigm of engagement. This event underscores the need for unity, purpose, and service, allowing individuals from all walks of life to contribute positively to their communities and to one another. To learn more about the event and register, visit www.zeromils.com/events/uniting-in-service-minneapolis.