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(WJBK) - Many of us mark this somber anniversary by reflecting on the tragedy, and our nation's response, but more than a thousand metro Detroit students are taking it a step further.
Armed with rakes and mowers, they are vowing to make 9-11 a day that shows the strength of our country. Students from International Academy's campuses boarded buses descending on Detroit as they honor this day not just by remembering but by doing.
For Pratham Goswami, it's a birthday. He was born on September 11, 2001 -- 17 years ago today.
"It's a really good thing. I enjoyed a lot because I can just go out there, be happy, do exactly what I wanna do and change the community as well," he said.
They're changing it one house at a time. Christian, Hindi, Jewish and Muslim Americans -- all too young to remember the details of the horror of 9/11 first hand instead reading about it and hearing of it from family.
"It really puts a stop to the mission of the people engaging in senseless acts of hatred. They're trying to divide us but we are fighting against hat by coming together in acts of service," said student Shivangi Dey.
Service In a neighborhood only 25 minutes away from where they live-a Street they otherwise wouldn't likely step foot in. They come to show solidarity in service to country and community on a painful day.
"It's become a symbol of trying to overcome fear and really look at the positives and try to find ways to really help individuals who need it," said Shivangi Dey.
"For me, it is a day of remembrance so it is definitely a time we need to set aside and remember all the lives that were lost but it's also a timethat we can make a positive difference in not only in our community but also another communities," Rohit Chakravarty said.
They know and have heard over and over again that we should all leave rbis word better than how we found it. Honoring the victims of 9/11 and the spirit of America, they do just that. Beginning in a community they now call their own.
"It really teaches me the place I live in and that doing the littlest things can help a community and help people," said Adriana Doria.