Dear Families and Friends,

 

July 4th marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, signed in 1776. Our nation has always stood for freedom and its founding ideals: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. As we celebrate this milestone, it is a time to reflect on our country's resilience when people unite for the greater good. There is no better example than the patriotism exemplified in the aftermath of 9/11, when people from all walks of life came together in solidarity and support.

 

Last week, Voices Center for Resilience was honored by the Daughters of the American Revolution at its 135th Continental Congress in Washington, DC. I was proud to accept the President General's Medallion Award alongside fellow honorees Beth Hillman (9/11 Memorial & Museum), Mark Desire (NYC OCME), and 9/11 Day co-founders Jay Winuk and David Paine. This month we are highlighting each of the organizations’ inspiring work.

 

In my remarks, I reflected on VOICES 25th anniversary and our mission: helping those impacted by 9/11 heal, honoring the lives lost, holding government accountable for protecting citizens, and supporting communities affected by other tragedies. I have seen firsthand what people can achieve when they come together. I am grateful to my family, friends, partners, staff, and supporters who make our work possible.

 

All of us at VOICES wish you a safe and celebratory 4th of July!

 

With warm regards,

 

 

On June 27th VOICES was recognized by the Daughters of the American Revolution at its 135th Continental Congress in Washington, DC. Mary Fetchet was proud to accept the President General's Medallion Award alongside fellow honorees Beth Hillman (9/11 Memorial & Museum), Mark Desire (NYC OCME), and 9/11 Day co-founders Jay Winuk and David Paine. To read Mary's acceptance speech, click here.

 

Under the leadership of President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage, the patriotic event brought together 3,000 members to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As part of the ceremony, 9/11 organizations were recognized to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of September 11th.

View Ceremony

 

Thank you to all of the golfers, sponsors and supporters who joined us at Quaker Ridge Golf Club for our 12th Annual Golf Outing. As we mark the 25th Anniversary of VOICES founding and as our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th Anniversary, we are grateful for your partnership in making this year's event such a success.

 

The outing began with a moving performance by members of the NYPD on Pipes and Drums. As we prepare to celebrate July 4th we would like to share their moving rendition of America the Beautiful. Their patriotic tribute honored those we lost, the sacrifices made by so many, and the enduring strength, unity, and resilience of the 9/11 community.

 

Last month, VOICES welcomed 9/11 responder advocate John Feal on our Meet the Author Series. John reflected on his experiences in the aftermath of September 11, sharing the personal journey that transformed him into one of the nation's most influential advocates for responders and survivors.

 

John paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of his fellow responders, whose dedication continues to inspire his work. He also spoke about the extraordinary impact of his longtime partnership with Jon Stewart, highlighting their successful efforts to secure critical healthcare and compensation benefits for those affected by 9/11.

Learn More

 

In the months following September 11, 2001, artists, schoolchildren, veterans, faith communities, and everyday citizens created thousands of pieces of Mail Art that were sent to VOICES as expressions of remembrance, hope, and solidarity. Among the most enduring themes was the American flag - a powerful symbol of patriotism, resilience, and national unity.

 

As the nation grieved, people of all backgrounds embraced the flag as a reminder that what united us was far greater than what divided us. Displayed in homes, schools, places of worship, and public spaces, the flag became a lasting expression of compassion, strength, and shared purpose. VOICES remarkable collection captures a moment when art reflected the unwavering spirit of a nation standing together.

 

9/11 Day was co-founded by Jay Winuk and David Paine after the loss of Jay’s brother Glenn, a volunteer firefighter and attorney who was killed responding to the 9/11 attacks. Inspired by Glen’s spirit of service, Jay and David established the day as a national call to transform the anniversary into a day of unity, remembrance, and action through volunteering.

 

The initiative brings people of all ages together in service, reinforcing the idea that helping others is a powerful way to honor those lost. VOICES is proud to join as a Founding Member of 9/11 Day’s 25th Anniversary National Commemoration Committee. Once again, with their support VOICES will be hosting 9/11 Day events to create Preparedness backpacks that will be distributed to communities.

 

In the aftermath of September 11, the NYC Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME), under the leadership of its first director, Dr. Charles S. Hirsch, made a solemn promise to the 9/11 community: the search for answers would never end until every possible effort had been made to identify the remains of those who were killed. That commitment offered hope to families and reflected an unwavering dedication to honoring every life lost.

 

Twenty-five years later, that promise still stands. Through advances in forensic DNA technology and the steadfast work of former director, Dr. Barbara Sampson and current director Dr. Jason Graham and members of the NYC OCME staff, efforts to identify the remains of those who perished continue with compassion, care, and determination. Each new identification reaffirms the enduring commitment to the families and ensures that those lost on 9/11 are never forgotten.

Self-compassion is about treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. It means acknowledging your struggles without judgment and giving yourself permission to be imperfect. Practicing self-compassion can reduce stress, build resilience, and improve overall well-being.

 

Simple acts, like speaking gently to yourself, taking breaks when needed, or celebrating small victories, can make a big difference. By cultivating self-compassion, we learn to respond to challenges with patience and empathy rather than criticism. Remember, being kind to yourself is a crucial step toward living a balanced and fulfilling life. Learn more.

Survivors (1st Wednesday, Virtual)

Wednesday, August 5th

12:00pm to 1:30pm EST

 

Survivors (2nd Wednesday, Virtual)

Wednesday, July 8th

12:00pm to 1:30pm EST

 

Survivors (3rd Wednesday, Virtual)

Wednesday, July 15th

12:00pm to 1:30pm EST

Victims' Family Members (Virtual)

Tuesday, July 14th

12:00pm to 1:30pm EST

 

Responders (Virtual)

Tuesday, July 21st

12:00pm to 1:30pm EST

 

Next Generation (Virtual)

Tuesday, July 7th

9:30am to 11:00am

 

Parents Helping Parents (In-Person)

Wednesday, July 15th

9:30am to 11:00am

Are you interested in joining VOICES Support Groups as a new member? Do you have a suggestion for a new Peer Support Group? Click here

Interested in attending? Click here to view VOICES upcoming events.

Recent articles of relevance to the VOICES community:

 

For additional articles of relevance to the VOICES community, click here.

From 9/11 to today, helping families and communities heal after tragedy

Voices Center for Resilience assists communities in preparing for and recovering from tragedy, and provides long-term support and resources that promote mental health care and wellness, for victims' families, responders and survivors.

More Information: VoicesCenter.org
(203) 966-3911 | Support@VoicesCenter.org

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