Today is September 11th.

I know two people whose birthdays are today, and I can’t wait to celebrate with them.

I also know that 25 years ago today, three horrific acts of terrorism changed our nation forever. The World Trade Center in New York City was attacked. The Pentagon in Virginia was attacked. And a plane crashed into a rural field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after courageous passengers and crew fought back.

September 11, 2001, changed countless lives. It changed us all.

Hearts of Hope Foundation, Inc. was founded in response to this horrific day – to help people navigate the awkward, painful, and sorrowful journey of grief.

This year marks a milestone for Hearts of Hope that most nonprofit organizations never see – 25 years of delivering hope and healing. It also marks this solemn anniversary of tragedy and loss.

So today, there are no parties. No cakes. No celebrations.

Today, we look back in awe at all the people we have had the privilege of touching over these many years. People at their most vulnerable have turned to us and asked:

“Can you help me?”

“Can you help my child?”

“Can you help my family?”

And we have.

For 25 years, Hearts of Hope has remained 100% volunteer-driven and committed to helping people navigate grief. This work is an honor and a privilege, and we are deeply grateful for every person who has trusted us to walk beside them through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

So today, we ask you to commemorate this milestone with us in a few simple ways:

Hug your loved ones a little tighter today.

Say “hi” to your neighbors — even those you don’t usually greet.

Choose kindness. Choose compassion. And remember that hate has no home in our lives or in our hearts.

Twenty-five years is an extraordinary milestone. We will celebrate it. We will celebrate the people who made it possible, the lives we have touched, and the hope that continues to carry us forward.

But not today.

Today, we remember.

With grace.

With gratitude.

With love.

September 11, 2001 — We will never forget.

Please know that if you or a loved one is grieving loss, help is here. My door is always open, as is my heart.

Warmly,