By: Donna Kush, President and CEO
For those of us who lived through September 11, 2001, the memories remain vivid. We remember where we were when we heard the news and the anger, fear and uncertainty that followed. Like many Americans, I found it difficult to believe that something so devastating could be unfolding in our country, a world leader and defender of others.
I was in Omaha that day, having returned just the day before from a trip that included New York City and San Francisco. Days earlier, I had taken a flight similar to one that was later attacked. The gravity of that reality did not fully sink in until much later. In those first hours, my instinct and focus was on the people around me. In my corporate role, we worked to locate employees who traveled frequently to New York and had business connections in the World Trade Center. Confirming their safety and communicating with the broader base of employees became our immediate priority, although very little was known in those first moments of disbelief.
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Twenty-five years have passed since that day, but its effect remains with us. The attacks changed our nation and left lasting effects on countless families, communities and individuals. Yet amid the tragedy, many of us also remember something else: a remarkable sense of unity. Americans from different backgrounds, beliefs and political perspectives came together in support of one another. Our shared commitment to community and pride for our country felt stronger than ever.
As we mark this anniversary, I hope we will consider not only what we lost, but also what we gained during that difficult period. The spirit of service, gratitude and connectedness that emerged after 9/11 remains just as important today. It is an opportunity to honor those who lost their lives, recognize the sacrifices made by their families and thank the first responders, military members and service professionals who continue to protect our democracy, freedom and lives every single day.
The Omaha Community Foundation is proud to participate in the Heartland Honors 9/11 campaign, a community-wide effort that invites all of us to remember, reflect and show appreciation through action. From September 1 through 11, local nonprofits, businesses, schools, civic organizations and community leaders will participate in events, volunteer activities and other efforts that honor the spirit of service demonstrated in the days following 9/11. The campaign offers many ways to get involved, whether that means volunteering, attending a community event, supporting a cause that matters to you or simply taking a moment to thank a first responder.
Linked below is a list of 501(c)(3) nonprofits that serve veterans, military members, first responders and their families across the Omaha–Council Bluffs metro area. Whether you want to support individuals and families serving our country, services to keep our heroes healthy or support animals who provide care to our protectors, there is a place for you to give.
As we commemorate this 25th anniversary, I hope we all take time to reflect and connect. The strength of a community can be seen in how we support one another, and together, we can honor the past while supporting those who continue to serve today.
