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As our nation reflects on this 10th anniversary of 9/11, it's no surprise to hear that the tragic event led to an unprecedented outpouring of generosity. Read on for a look at how 9/11 changed the conventional philanthropic landscape of our nation -- plus, how you can help honor those we lost, from right here in North Carolina.
"How Sept. 11 changed charity in America" (CNN Money)
NEW YORK -- The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, inspired Americans to step up and help their neighbors like never before, donating billions of dollars to families who lost loved ones. Americans donated a record-breaking $2.8 billion to help the victims of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, a Washington-based news agency that tracks institutional charities like the American Red Cross.
Four years later, after Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans and the Deep South, Americans pulled out their checkbooks once again. Donations to help the survivors of Katrina outpaced September 11 charity by 90%, establishing yet another record.
"September 11 was the first time there was such an outpouring for an event like that," said Michael Solomon, spokesman for the Chronicle of Philanthropy. "When Katrina came along, charities and donors were ready for that moment."
The years of experience that charitable organizations acquired in the wake of September 11 set the stage for an even more generous outpouring after Katrina cut a swath through Louisiana, Mississippi and other states, killing 1,723 people in what the Federal Emergency Management Agency called "the single most catastrophic natural disaster in U.S. history." Americans donated $5.3 billion to the victims of Katrina, according to the Chronicle...
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As you probably know, 9/11 is recognized as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. In North Carolina, the governor's office's website offers a way to thank your local emergency first responders, plus a list of several 9/11 service projects around state. (If you don't see your community listed, try contacting your nearest volunteer center for more information.)
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