Honoring Heroes: Climbing 41 Flights for Tunnel to Towers

Over the weekend, our Friends of the Children team had the incredible honor of joining forces with Stephen Disney and his team from T. Disney Trucking to climb a staggering 41 flights of stairs. This physical feat was not just a personal challenge but a powerful gesture of respect and gratitude for our nation's brave first responders and military heroes. The event, known as Tunnel to Towers, is deeply rooted in the spirit of courage and heroism, born from the ashes of the tragic events of 9/11. As we reflect on our third year of participation in this remarkable event, we find ourselves in awe of the unwavering dedication and resiliency of our First Responders. We climb not only as a physical challenge but, more importantly, in honor of these heroes.

Tunnel to Towers: A Legacy of Courage and Compassion

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is a beacon of hope and support, emerging from the devastating aftermath of the September 11th attacks. The Foundation carries forward a legacy etched in courage and heroism, with a profound mantra, "While we have time, LET US DO GOOD." This mantra serves as a guiding light, directing their efforts to support our nation's fallen and catastrophically injured first responders, military heroes, and their families.

This remarkable organization has committed itself to providing assistance where it's needed most, standing beside those who put their lives on the line for our safety and well-being. Through their programs and initiatives, Tunnel to Towers ensures that the heroes who serve our communities are never forgotten and always cared for.

Friends of the Children's Ongoing Commitment

For our Friends of the Children team, this year marked our third consecutive participation in the Tunnel to Towers event. Each year, as we lace up our climbing shoes and take on those 41 flights of stairs, we are filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the individuals who run toward danger when others run away.

Our mission as an organization centers around empowering youth who face significant challenges. We've always recognized the importance of mentors and role models in the lives of children. Our commitment to mentorship extends beyond the individual child to the broader community, including those who serve on the front lines of emergencies.

We believe that heroes come in many forms, and our First Responders exemplify this truth. They exhibit immense courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of others. Climbing those 41 flights of stairs is our way of saluting their dedication and saying, "We see you, and we appreciate you."

In Honor of the Heroes

As we reflect on our journey with Tunnel to Towers, we are reminded of the importance of unity, gratitude, and compassion. The event is not just about climbing stairs; it's about recognizing the sacrifices made by our First Responders and military heroes.

Every step we take is a symbol of our support for these extraordinary individuals and their families. It's a gesture of appreciation for their selflessness and commitment to a greater cause. It's a reminder that, no matter the challenges we face, there's a hero in each of us.

In the spirit of "While we have time, LET US DO GOOD," we climb, we remember, and we honor. And, in doing so, we hope to inspire others to join us in supporting our nation's heroes. Together, we can carry forward the legacy of courage and heroism, making our communities safer and stronger for all.

Thank you to Stephen Disney, T. Disney Trucking, and all our dedicated climbers for standing with us on this journey.

In unity and gratitude,

Tampa Bay Friends of the Children Team