West Palm Beach will witness a gathering of local heroes and community members on September 14, as the West Palm Beach Fire Department (WPBFD) and Police Department host the 7th Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and for a lighter touch, the 2nd Annual 5K Fun Run; the events kick off at 515 North Flagler Drive at 8 a.m., as reported by the City's press release. Participating in the stair climb, individuals will ascend an equivalent of 110 stories, reminding them of first responders' bravery against the World Trade Center's towering challenge.
Additionally, attendees are invited to stretch their legs in a less daunting challenge with the 5K Fun Run, the CrossFit Squad Workout Challenge, and the Bill Bone Hero Challenge. The West Palm Beach 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Committee has been pivotal in contributing funds to local causes, having pooled together $195,000 over the years, benefiting organizations such as the Pediatric Oncology Support Team, Operation 300, and scholarships for Fire Academy students at Palm Beach Lakes High School.
Funds raised at this year's event will continue to support these critical community organizations: the Pediatric Oncology Support Team (POST), assisting children with cancer and their families; Operation 300, providing care and mentorship for Gold Star families' children; and scholarships for future first responders studying at Palm Beach Lakes High School, Patryk Mierzejewski, an event spokesperson, mentioned in the provided statement. The collective contributions speak to the community's unwavering spirit, representing over $90,000 to POST, $85,000 to Operation 300, and $20,000 dedicated to scholarships, as detailed by the city's website.
The City underscores the importance of this annual event not only as a tribute to the fallen heroes and victims of the 9/11 attacks but also as an opportunity for the broader community to come together in an act of collective remembrance and support, extending an invitation to media representatives and all community members to participate in honoring the legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their community, as per the official website. For additional details about the event and to join the cause, interested parties are directed to the West Palm Beach 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb website or to contact Patryk Mierzejewski via email.
