It’s been nine years since four hijacked airplanes changed the face of our nation on September 11, 2001. But in the face of disaster, Americans responded with patriotism as neighbors helped neighbors to make sense of the acts of terrorism. The following year, President George signed into law the observance of Patriot Day on September 11.

By 2008, the proclamation was amended by the president to include volunteering as an appropriate form of remembrance, designating September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Therefore Patriot Day should be celebrated with a dual purpose: to commemorate the lives lost as a result of the tragic events and to honor the heroism of those average citizens who gave selflessly in the months following. Here are nine ways to observe Patriot Day this September 11.

1. Fly your flag at half-mast.
2. Observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Time to mark the time of the first plane flying into the World Trade Center.
3. Volunteer at your favorite organization.
4. Organize a neighborhood improvement project to beautify your community.
5. Get a group together and serve at a homeless shelter.
6. Find a cause at www.911dayofservice.org to support.
7. Help an elderly neighbor with a project.
8. Make a donation to your favorite charity in honor of one of your heroes.
9. Teach your children the importance of volunteering by getting them involved.