On September 11, 2017, I participated in the 9/11 Day of Service with the Taproot Foundation at The California Endowment in Los Angeles, as part of a nationwide initiative that connects business professionals with nonprofit organizations through pro bono consulting and skills-based volunteering.
Created in remembrance of September 11, the initiative expanded beyond traditional volunteering by encouraging professionals to contribute their expertise in strategy, marketing, operations, human resources, and technology, recognizing that strengthening nonprofit capacity can influence long-term community impact.
Through organized Speed Consulting sessions held across cities, including Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, volunteers and nonprofit leaders exchanged ideas to help organizations address challenges and strengthen their missions.
The following day, Southern California Grantmakers and community leaders gathered to recognize contributions from individuals and organizations advancing impact across the region.
The week reinforced something that remains relevant: Expertise can be a resource. Sharing knowledge, time, and lived experience can strengthen organizations serving communities.