This year, as Rosh Hashanah lines up with the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Repair the World and Hillel International are joining forces for a day of service. Across the country, more than 800 college students at 22 campus Hillels will be honoring this day through acts of service in their communities.
The initiative, which was supported by a grant from 9/11 Day and Americorps, will address issues like food security, environmental stewardship, and other local needs. Both Repair the World and Hillel are helping Jewish young adults connect with the spirit of civic engagement and collective responsibility for those in their community.
“Most college students today know September 11 through history books and the stories they’ve heard from family, teachers, and the media,” said Melissa Levine, senior director of strategic initiatives at Repair the World. “On that day, people came together to care for one another. Service is a way for young adults to connect with and carry forward that legacy.”
“On that day, people came together to care for one another. Service is a way for young adults to connect with and carry forward that legacy.” – Melissa Levine
According to Dani Levine, senior director of social impact at Hillel International, last year, 15 Hillels participated in this project; this year, it’s up to 22. They previously supported first responders by creating care packages for them to show their appreciation.
“This is a time to refocus from tragedy, disaster, disagreement, and polarization, and look to empower young people to work together,” Dani said. “It benefits the community and allows our students to see themselves as civic agents… We have problems everywhere. The more people work to address them locally, they are taking steps to alleviate suffering, pain, and challenges, and create a better world for all of us.”
As Jewish students have dealt with their fair share of issues on college campuses since October 7, they’re searching for ways to engage with their Judaism.
“They now have an additional way to connect Jewishly, as they are figuring out their Jewish identity on campus,” said Melissa. “This is a nonpolitical and very natural way to engage Jewishly. They get to know their communities and have a connection to volunteering. It’s a Jewish value.”
The 9/11 initiative also marks the start of Repair the World’s National Days of Jewish Service (NDJS). This month-long campaign runs September 10 through October 10 and invites thousands of young adult volunteers around the U.S. to participate in meaningful service. There will be volunteering opportunities that focus on food and housing insecurity, the environment, and immigrant and refugee support.
The work doesn’t stop there. Throughout the year, Repair the World organizes nationwide service initiatives for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, as well as during the spring for Passover, Holocaust Remembrance, Earth Day, and National Volunteer Week. They aim to engage tens of thousands of volunteers every year, and by 2030, the organization hopes to inspire one million acts of service.
“Whether we’re commemorating September 11, honoring Dr. King’s legacy, celebrating Passover, or entering the High Holiday season, we have opportunities to act on our values,” said Melissa. “NDJS brings people together to serve with neighbors, strengthen their communities, and demonstrate that remembrance is a catalyst for action.”
As for 9/11, Jewish college students are going to meaningfully commemorate the memory of the those who lost their lives.
“It was really a national tragedy and a day of loss,” said Dani. “The mission is to take some level of ownership back and say, this is a time when we can honor the memory of all those we lost and better our community. We identify the needs, and we come together for a day of service.”
