NJCDC Holds Two Service Events in Remembrance of 9/11

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September 11, 2001, was a day that forever changed our world. In the aftermath of that horrific tragedy, we made a collective promise to “never forget” the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the bravery of so many that day. To honor that vow, each year our AmeriCorps program holds a service event on 9/11. This year was no exception, as we remembered and paid tribute to those lives by coming together as a community for a day of service.

On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, we organized meaningful service events in Paterson. Over 70 employees from AvalonBay Communities participated in several projects, while our AmeriCorps members led other initiatives that occurred simultaneously. These efforts were focused on revitalizing key areas of the city, with both groups contributing to making visible improvements throughout Paterson.

The day began at our Great Falls Youth Center, where NJCDC Founder and CEO Bob Guarasci addressed the volunteers and AmeriCorps members, thanking them for their dedication and emphasizing the importance of service in honoring the memory of 9/11. With a renewed sense of purpose, the volunteers set off to their respective locations.

A large group of AvalonBay volunteers concentrated on cleaning and beautifying the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, one of our city’s most beloved landmarks. Armed with gloves and cleaning supplies, they worked tirelessly to remove debris, clear pathways, and enhance the overall appearance of the Great Falls. Others from their group extended their efforts to our affordable and supportive housing developments, helping to create a cleaner, more welcoming environment for residents by painting, power washing, and landscaping at two of NJCDC’s affordable housing units.

Meanwhile, our AmeriCorps members concentrated on improving the area even closer to our headquarters, with special attention given to the Rosario Coscia Children’s Garden at our Paterson Family Center preschool. The garden — an outdoor classroom for our youngest students — was carefully cleaned and then enhanced with new plants and flowers, ensuring it remains a safe, vibrant space for learning. Our AmeriCorps members also cleaned the nearby raceways, further contributing to the area's revitalization.

By the end of the day, both the AvalonBay volunteers and our AmeriCorps members had made a lasting impact. The Great Falls looked significantly cleaner and more inviting to those who live, work, and visit here, the Coscia Children’s Garden was beautified, and our neighborhood was noticeably improved.

As Bob shared in his remarks, “This day is about remembering the lives lost by making a positive impact on the world around us. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us today to serve Paterson.”