The City of Casa Grande is rallying its community for the National Day of Service Project on September 21, calling for unity and to honor those lost on September 11, 2001. Volunteers are invited to join forces from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Ed Hooper Park, according to a statement obtained by the Casa Grande's official announcement.
The event, a collective endeavor of local residents, schools, and churches, aims for clean-up and beautification of the area. In 2023, over 400 volunteers contributed to similar efforts on Casa Grande Mountain. Ed Hooper Park will be the focus of this year's service day, with activities including litter removal, painting, and landscaping spearheaded by civic leaders and first responders, including N.Y. City Firefighter Frank Sala, who was present at the World Trade Center during the attacks.
Participation registration is open via the city's volunteer website or on JustServe.org. The morning will commence with an opening ceremony featuring Mayor Craig McFarland, Mayor-elect Lisa Fitzgibbons, and several Arizona State Legislators. The ceremony is set to remind participants of the significance of community solidarity in the face of national tragedy.
Moreover, the Arts & Culture Commission is facilitating an opportunity for volunteers to create thank-you cards and letters for local first responders and military personnel overseas. Supplies such as trash bags and gloves will be provided, although supplies are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis; participants may also bring their own.
Attendees are reminded to consider the weather and bring hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and blankets for comfort during the opening ceremony. Following the activities, a complimentary hot dog lunch will be available for all volunteers. Organizers encourage participants to don red, white, and blue, and photographers will be present throughout the event to capture the day's moments of service and camaraderie.
