Voices Center for Resilience PRESS RELEASE
New Canaan, CT — Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES) will host its 2026 Building Bridges Luncheon, Honoring Stewards of Memory, on Friday, April 17th at the Country Club of New Canaan. The annual event recognizes individuals who make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This September marks both the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, and the founding of VOICES in response to the attacks. In recognition of this milestone year, the Building Bridges Luncheon shines a light on the enduring importance of remembrance and commemoration of the lives lost and the resilience of those who survived.
Veteran journalist and news anchor Brian Williams will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The 2026 Building Bridges Award will be presented to Alice Greenwald, former President and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and James E. Young, world-renowned historian of memory and Professor Emeritus at University of Massachusetts Amherst. Their distinguished careers and leadership, along with their contributions to creating a magnificent 9/11 Memorial & Museum, reflect a deep commitment to preserving history for future generations. Mary Fetchet, VOICES Executive Director noted, “The milestone of the 25th Anniversary is an important time to recognize those whose dedication and stewardship honors the memory of those who died, the resilience of those who survived, and the way our country came together. In the face of unspeakable tragedy, Alice and James have devoted their careers to this sacred work.”
Special guests include Dede Bartlett, who will speak about the impact of Voices Center for Resilience, and Craig Schubert, who was working in the South Tower at the WTC on 9/11, will reflect on his experience evacuating the building and his enduring path of resilience. Broadway star Ciarán Sheehan, known for his acclaimed performances as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and in Toronto, will provide a special musical performance.
Sponsorship opportunities and tickets for the Building Bridges Luncheon are available at voicescenter.org. For inquiries contact: Sarah Green at sgreen@voicescenter.org or call 203-966-3911.
Proceeds from the luncheon will support VOICES steadfast commitment to provide long-term support for victims’ families, responders and survivors as well as community-based programs that assist those impacted by loss and grief.
About Voices Center for Resilience:
Voices Center for Resilience (VOICES), formerly Voices of September 11th was co-founded in 2001 by Mary Fetchet, whose son Brad died in the attacks, and Beverly Eckert whose husband Sean Rooney perished. From 9/11 to today, VOICES provides long-term support and access to resources for thousands of victims’ families, responders and survivors, and is equally committed to collaborating with partners to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from tragedy, in the United States and abroad.
