A Family Affair: Volunteering at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

For Theresa and her daughter Ella, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is more than a place of remembrance—it's a space of shared purpose, intergenerational connection, and community.  

Theresa, a longtime volunteer and docent, discovered the opportunity during a period of transition in her life. “I was kind of trying to take a break from all that and do something a little more in the line of giving back,” she explained. As a New Yorker and history enthusiast, Theresa was inspired to get involved despite not having a direct connection to the attacks.

“It just felt right,” she said. “Any day you get to have a human experience that feels meaningful is a good day.” 

Ella, currently a staff member in the Museum Education department, initially resisted the idea of working in such an emotionally intense space. But seeing her mom thrive in her volunteer role changed her mind.

“Watching her go through the docent training, I thought, 'If she can do that, maybe I can, too'” Ella shared.

After graduating with a history degree, she began leading tours, and later transitioned into planning and promoting public and professional programs for the 9/11 community. 

“What drew me in was the opportunity to be a New Yorker telling a New York story,” she said. 

Their roles at the Museum continue to evolve, but one thing has remains constant: meaningful interaction with visitors from around the world.

“The volunteer community here is incredibly welcoming,” said Ella. “Everyone shows up to the Museum ready to be open and human in their day-to-day lives.”  

Theresa shares that sentiment, noting that some of her most profound experiences have come from helping visitors process difficult emotions.

“To be able to talk to them, help them through what they need to process, and feel a little better about the visit… it means a lot,” she said. “I feel very fortunate and blessed that I found a space there. And I’m really, really thankful that Ella did too.” 

Theresa and Ella’s journey reminds us that family, community, and service lay at the heart of our mission and reveal the meaningful purpose of our Memorial and Museum sacred spaces.  We are grateful for individuals like Theresa and Ella who help ensure the world never forgets. 

Learn about volunteer opportunities at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

By 9/11 Memorial Staff