A Day of Remembrance, a Day of Service

More than 100 MCC students were joined today by President Carole Cowan and Congresswoman Niki Tsongas of Lowell as they performed community service as part of the college's Seasons of Service, with today's events coordinated to commemorate the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on our country.

Last October, more than 800 MCC students, faculty and staff took part in a Day of Service, donating their time and efforts to projects at 55 sites in 16 local cities and towns.  MCC people cleaned parks and riverways, sorted food at local food pantries, did repair work at area homeless shelters and provided support to people with physical and cognitive disabilities.  On that one day, MCC personnel provided over 2,400 hours of service to the college's communities.

This year, instead of just one day, the service project has been extended by the college's Center for Community Engagement throughout the whole school year, as part of a Seasons of Service initiative, with an eye toward surpassing last year's totals.

On Friday, a series of events were rolled out in conjunction with the call for service to help memorialize the 9/11/01 attacks.  In the Lowell cafeteria, as more than 100 students folded and sorted thousands of pieces of donated clothing for the Lowell Wish Project, they were joined by Tsongas, who took some time to speak to them not just about the significance of the 9/11 anniversary, but the importance of their volunteerism.  Tsongas then spent about an hour sorting clothing with the students.

The projects will continue throughout the school year.

And in the meantime, don't forget to take a moment to remember those lost eight years ago today.  MCC's prayers and support are extended to all of the victim's friends and families who have carried on in the wake of that unforgettable day.