Heartland Honors 9/11

Heartland Honors 9/11 Unites the Omaha Metro in Recognition of the 25th Anniversary of 
September 11

Heartland Honors 9/11 Unites the Omaha Metro in Recognition of the 25th Anniversary of 
September 11

Join us in honoring the spirit of community, service, and appreciation for first responders. From events and volunteer opportunities to simple acts of gratitude, there are many ways to take part September 1 - 11. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to engage — and no act is too small.

A Milestone Anniversary

This anniversary is an opportunity to honor the first responders, service members, medical professionals, and volunteers who run toward danger, care for others in moments of crisis, and serve our communities every day. It is also a chance to come together — across neighborhoods, workplaces, and generations — in a shared spirit of gratitude, service, and unity.

How to Get Involved

Join us. Honor 9/11 and all first responders in a way that's meaningful to you. From volunteer service to attending events or showing appreciation at home or work, there are many ways for everyone to take part. Every effort helps us come together as a community to remember, honor, and serve.
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Display a Yard Sign or Flag

The response for yard signs has been overwhelming - thank you to those who have picked up and displayed a sign. We will have our final distribution of any remaining signs on Friday, September 4th at the Omaha Storm Chasers game. If you are unable to get a sign, we invite you to join us in this effort by displaying an American flag.

11 Days of Volunteer Service

People of all ages are encouraged to support any cause meaningful to them through volunteering and acts of kindness. Service is a powerful way to express gratitude and remembrance.

Explore volunteer opportunities by clicking on the partner links below.

Support the First Responders Foundation Luncheon with 9/11 Survivor Will Jimeno - SOLD OUT!

The First Responders Foundation is a local organization. It exists to honor, support, and care for the overall well-being of first responders, veterans, and their families. Donations support behavioral health programs, the JAVELAN service dog program, training classes, workshops, and more.

Learn More About the First Responders Foundation

Charitable Giving

The Omaha Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for Western Iowa provide opportunities to direct charitable contributions of any size to nonprofit organizations that reflect a donor's personal values and connections. These trusted community partners offer transparent and impactful ways to support local causes, including organizations that serve first responders and their families. These giving opportunities can create meaningful local impact in honor of those who protect, serve, and strengthen our communities every day.

Community Events Calendar

Honor, connect, and get involved. Browse events by day or click to view the full calendar.

Full List of 9/11 Community Activities

Discounted Ticket Events and Activities

  1. Wednesday, September 9
  2. Friday, September 11
  3. Saturday, September 12
  4. Sunday, September 13
  5. Friday, September 18
  6. Friday, September 25

Resources

To support age-appropriate conversations with youth, these educational resources for teachers and families can help explain what happened, why it matters, and how values such as service, courage, and resilience can be discussed with care.

Visit your local library for additional content about the history and personal stories of those impacted by 9/11.

Youth and Family Education Materials

Will Jimeno Books

Express Your Gratitude

Expressing gratitude to first responders is a meaningful way to get involved — because even a few words can make a difference. The links below include addresses and website links for local fire and police departments, military groups, and organizations such as A Million Thanks, Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Operation Gratitude, and the USO.

View List of Fire and Police Departments, and More

Omaha Mayor John Ewing, Jr. has designated 2026 as the "Year of the Neighbor." The month of September will highlight frontline workers. Nominate a frontline worker that deserves extra recognition for their work in our community.

Learn More Here

Media Partner

Heartland Honors 9/11 is a community‑wide effort, and we are grateful for the partnership of KETV. This support helps amplify the stories, events, and impact of this collective commemoration.

Visit KETV.com to Discover More

Steering Committee and Community Champions

  • Chairs: James and Paula Blackledge
  • Honorary Chair: Mayor John Ewing, Jr.

The Heartland Honors 9/11 Steering Committee is a volunteer-led group of business leaders, first responders, non-profit partners, and civic champions guiding this community-wide effort. Community Champions are dedicated supporters who play a vital role in bringing the initiative to life. We’re grateful for the collaboration and commitment of all involved.

View Full List of Our Committee
View Full List of Community Champions
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