Dear Families and Friends,

This past weekend, the VOICES staff participated in the News 4 New York Giants Health and Fitness Expo. Over 20,000 people attended the one-of-a-kind weekend event held in the MetLife Stadium. The VOICES team got a chance to meet several members of the News 4 team right on the field where the NY Giants play in the fall!  They also got the chance to talk to hundreds of people about how to apply to the World Trade Center Health Program. The New York metropolitan area is home to many of the responders and survivors who were at the WTC site after 9/11. We are privileged to work with them to help determine their eligibility for health care coverage under the program and to assist with the application process. To learn more about the WTC Health Program, you can call Debbie Westfal toll free at 855-709-0100, email us at wtchp@voicesofsept11.org or go to our website at www.voicesofsept11.org.

On Monday, June 24th Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney and Congressman Jerrold Nadler held a press conference in Lower Manhattan to raise awareness about health care benefits available under the Zadroga Law. The event also marked the 100 day countdown to the deadline for most survivors and responders to file claims for economic losses with the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). To view the press release, click here.

Recently, I was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the annual Alumni Day of my alma mater, the Columbia University School of Social Work.  It was a great honor to be recognized with such esteemed individuals - Paul Kurzman '64, Sadye Logan '80DSW, and the late Shelton Granger '47, each who have made significant contributions to the field of social work. During the daylong event, we had an opportunity to present our work to educators and alumni. Those in attendance were especially interested to learn how our social work training has influenced our work. At the induction I was able to thank those who have supported my vision for VOICES - our dedicated staff, volunteers and interns, and my family and friends. As I reflect on the evolution of the organization over the past 12 years, the 9/11 families, survivors, rescue and recovery workers have been critical in guiding our work, and will continue to do so in the years ahead.

Sadly, we lost a champion for the 9/11 community with the recent death of Senator Frank Lautenberg. After 9/11, he relentlessly pushed for higher spending on homeland security and on the Tenth Anniversary he sponsored legislation calling for a national moment of silence to honor the victims. Most importantly, Senator Lautenberg was always available to listen to our concerns. I have fond memories of my last conversation with him while traveling from Washington DC on the Amtrak train.  He reflected on how 9/11 affected him personally, and spoke passionately about his personal goal of making sure that future generations "never forget". As they say your eyes are the window to your soul.  His compassion, determination to make a difference and love of life was conveyed through the twinkle in his bright blue eyes. Senator Lautenberg will sorely be missed.

Sincerely,