Community clean-ups, blood donation drives and the airing of a tribute documentary are planned next week as part of Riverside’s recognition of the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
“Riverside has a special connection to the events at Ground Zero two decades ago because many of our first responders played a vital role in the search-and-rescue effort after the attacks,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “We will never forget the lives lost on that terrible day, or the sacrifices made by our fellow Riversiders, who answered the call to provide vital assistance.”
Members of Riverside County Task Force 6 deployed to the World Trade Center within two days of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack that destroyed the twin towers in New York City. Riverside Fire Department crews were in the assignment and assisted with rescue and recovery operations.
Officials said a video paying tribute to first responders will be aired via the city’s website, www.WatchRiverside.com, on Wednesday, Sept. 8, and again on Saturday, Sept. 11.
On Sept. 11, the city’s Day of Service will include a series of neighborhood cleanups that are being organized in various locations and times through the nonprofit Keep Riverside Clean & Beautiful organization. More information is available at forms.gle/c6eDgJ5vXE3LPe7E8.
Volunteers are needed to help with removal of litter, graffiti and items stuck to utility poles, as well as to pile up fallen palm fronds, which can turn into fuel for fires.
The American Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive on Sept. 11 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at 6235 Rivercrest Drive.
Lifestream Blood Bank will be holding separate donation drives all next week. More information is available at www.lstream.org/upcomingmobiles.
“Our citywide remembrance event is an important part of the Riverside fabric,” Councilman Jim Perry said. “Many thanks to the many volunteers and organizations that worked together to make this day of remembrance possible.”