THANK YOU to everyone who generously donated to VOICES annual appeal this year! Your contribution helps us help others by making a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families we are privileged to assist. If you have not yet planned your year-end charitable giving, we hope you will consider making a donation to support our ongoing work.
Thank you to those who shared your personal reflections about honoring your loved ones during the holidays. Among the many notes we received were thoughtful tips and creative ideas for beginning new traditions while still preserving the memories of the past. We hope this is helpful, and invite you to share the information with others.
As the holiday season approaches and we gather with family and friends, we remember those who are no longer with us. Often times family traditions change after a loss, and we find new ways to celebrate the holidays and keep the memory of our loved ones alive. Personally, I have always found great joy in decorating for the Christmas season.
Thanksgiving is a special time of year when we count our many blessings - our family and friends - both near and far, as well as those who are no longer with us, whose memories we hold dear. The holiday season is a time for all of us at VOICES to say thank you to the hundreds of individuals who have contributed to our work this year.
Did you know that November is National Family Caregivers Month? Family and friends play a critical role in assisting survivors and responders who have been diagnosed with 9/11 related illnesses. For some, the responsibility of caregiving can be challenging. It is important that we all have the support we need to sustain the day-to-day requirements of helping others.
Yesterday, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum held a brief ceremony paying tribute to the eight lives lost and the eleven who were injured in Monday's attack. Roses were placed at the Survivor Tree and red, white and blue ribbons were tied around its branches. The ceremony also recognized the courageous members of law enforcement and responders who assisted the injured and captured the perpetrator.
Our deepest sympathies are with all those who were affected by the deadly shooting that occurred in Las Vegas last night, and with the brave individuals who risked their lives in responding. There are no words to adequately describe the profound sadness we all feel today.
September was a busy month for us at VOICES! Thanks to all who contributed to the success of this year's events. On September 5 we hosted our 3rd Annual Golf Outing at the Country Club of Fairfield. Fortunately, the weather cooperated and the participants had another beautiful day of golf overlooking the Long Island Sound.
On the 16th Anniversary, we gathered once again - in New York City, at the Pentagon, in Shanksville, PA, and in our local communities to remember and reflect. Much like September 11, 2001, the air was crisp, the sky was cloudless and the sun shined brightly.
Join us for VOICES 16th Annual Day of Remembrance Information Forum! Once again we will provide an informative program including presentations, panel discussions and round-table conversations designed to promote healing and resilience in the 9/11 community. The program is free of charge for 9/11 family members, survivors and responders and the dedicated professionals who are supporting them in a variety of ways.