(JNS.org) As the world marks the 16th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks next week, Jewish National Fund (JNF) will host and participate in various memorial events in the U.S. to honor American first responders.

JNF, which in 2009 constructed the 9/11 Living Memorial in the foothills of Jerusalem, will join in the events as an expression of “gratitude,” the organization said Tuesday.

“We are very pleased to recognize our brave first responders for their contributions and sacrifices to our nation and to our local communities, and to share our mutual respect while we honor those who fell during the attacks,” said Edward Blank, a member of JNF’s board of directors, who donated the Jerusalem memorial.

JNF will host public tributes to first responders in Baltimore; Beverly Hills, California; Long Island, New York.; Los Angeles; Miami; and Westchester, New York.

Hundreds of Jewish students, lay leaders, rabbis and Jewish community members will participate in the events.