9/11 – Eighteen Years Later

Today on September 11th we return to the somber task of recognizing a day that significantly changed the outlook of many Americans.

On that day in September devastation and terror was shown in sharp relief with acts of kindness and compassion as the events in New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon unfolded for all to see. If you were old enough to see Towers fall, you may recall the struggle to come to terms with the changing nature of our world. 18 years later 9/11 continues to be a fixed point in history – part of a past that has led to a changed America that has since continued  to weather numerous natural and man-made crises. The lessons since that day have changed how all Americans think about disasters, emergencies and acts of terrorism in the United States. A generation of individuals who were just being born as the acts of 9/11 took  place are now entering workplaces and post-secondary education. While we do not wish to pass on hate and fear of outside attack, we can take the opportunity to pass to that generation the importance of preparation and planning. September has been designated National Preparedness Month and calls upon us all to consider how to be ready when our country is tested, and how to make plans that include older Americans, individuals with disabilities. Local organizations, neighbors, families and friends to create networks of support and resources in times of crisis