SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — This past weekend, Utah served as a meeting ground for global changemakers as they gathered to spotlight the importance of compassion and community at the 2025 Kindness Summit. Among them was David Paine, co-founder of the national nonprofit “9/11 Day,” who shared how one of the darkest moments in American history inspired a lifelong mission of service.
Paine, who experienced the emotional impact of the September 11th attacks firsthand, has spent years working to transform that day of tragedy into a day of unity and good deeds. Through his organization, he encourages people across the country to honor the memory of 9/11 not just by remembering the loss, but by engaging in acts of kindness and community service.
“What happened on 9/11 reshaped me,” Paine said during his remarks. “But in the days that followed, I also saw the best in humanity. That spirit of coming together is what I wanted to help preserve and spread.”
Since launching 9/11 Day, Paine and his team have coordinated thousands of service projects across the U.S., turning the anniversary into one of the country’s largest days of charitable action. From food drives to community cleanups, the movement aims to keep the legacy of unity alive for generations who may not remember the attacks.
“Next year marks 25 years since 9/11,” Paine noted. “And yet, more than 100 million Americans today have no personal memory of that day. Many were just children—or not even born yet.”
The Kindness Summit featured Utah Governor Spencer Cox and other local and international leaders who emphasized how simple, daily acts of kindness can lead to powerful change. The message shared was clear: compassion should not be reserved for times of crisis.
“We are inherently good,” said Paine. “Our challenge is to lead with that goodness every day—not just when disaster strikes.”
For more information on how to participate in 9/11 Day activities or to share your own stories of kindness, you can visit 911day.org or contact ABC4 at ActsofKindness@abc4.com.
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