Beyond Words Tribute Makes Donation to Families of Freedom

From September 8-30, 2011, the towns of Gander, Lewisporte, Gambo, Norris Arm, Glenwood and Appleton, in conjunction with Destination Gander, hosted a 10th anniversary tribute to 9/11 entitled “Beyond Words”.

Ten years after the attacks, thoughts and prayers remained with those who were most directly impacted. The residents of Central Newfoundland wanted to do something to show that their friendship had a lasting bond and that it was not something that was driven simply by the immediate crisis. It was decided that a fundraising effort around the 10th anniversary of the attacks be started with the goal of making a significant donation to the charity “Families of Freedom” for use in scholarships for the children who lost a parent during the attacks.

The event was an overwhelming success garnering national and international media interest. In the weeks following the events, Destination Gander and the Town of Gander received hundreds of emails and letters complimenting us on the events and thanking the townspeople for all they did during September of 2001.

Chair of Destination Gander, Mr. Rex Avery stated, “I gratefully acknowledge that it was due to the efforts of the community of Gander and surrounding municipalities, that the tribute was such a huge success. Without the extraordinary commitment of all the volunteers it would not have been possible.”

Town of Gander Mayor, Claude Elliott stated, “I am very proud of the support shown by our citizens and the surrounding communities; their kindness is very much appreciated. I would especially like to recognize all the area residents who gave so much to help our unexpected guests and who then further assisted us in making these anniversary events the success that they were.”

As a result of the month-long event, the organizers of the Beyond Words tribute are very proud to donate $68,456 to Families of Freedom.

Upon hearing of the donation, Rhianna Quinn Roddy, Executive Director for Families of Freedom, shared the following: “We are so very grateful to the people of Gander for their generosity and kindness. Our families will never forget how the people of Gander gave so generously around the events of 9/11, nor the continuing generosity and thoughtfulness that went into all of the fundraising events in Gander around the 10th remembrance of September 11th, 2001. Your donation is a wonderful tribute to all of those whose lives were lost on that day and to their families.”