Visionary Network Leads Memorial Beautification Projects
Visionary Network Leads Memorial Beautification Projects
- October 5, 2025
In recognition of the 24th anniversary of 9/11, over the past two months, Visionaries led memorial beautification projects across New York City. The Memorial Beautification initiative was launched to clean and restore memorials in local communities by planting flowers, cleaning the grounds, or simply stopping by to reflect and remember those lost. These projects, made possible with the support of 9/11 Day and AmeriCorps, reinforce our commitment to remembrance and reflection while connecting with the next generation.
The First Quincy Street Community Garden is home to a memorial that honors the 12 Black firefighters killed on 9/11. On August 16, Visionaries joined members of the community and the FDNY Vulcan Society, a fraternal organization of Black firefighters, to preserve the garden and memorial as a peaceful space. Together, these volunteers helped prepare the garden ahead of the Vulcan Society's annual 9/11 ceremony, which honors the firefighters' memory and their sacrifice.
On August 30 and September 1, Visionary Jonathan Egan organized a 9/11 Memorial Beautification at the Queen Elizabeth II September 11th Memorial Garden in Hanover Square, which honors all British citizens killed on 9/11. Jonathan’s father, Michael Egan, and his aunt, Christine Egan, were killed on September 11. Michael and Christine were from the United Kingdom and were remembered as “proud Brits.”
Over the course of these two days, community members worked together to refresh the space. Jonathan’s efforts reinforce his commitment to honoring his family’s legacy and their connection to the United Kingdom.
On September 7, Visionary Alex Zablocki led a memorial beautification at the Staten Island September 11th Postcards Memorial (right). The memorial commemorates the 263 Staten Island residents who lost their lives on 9/11, as well as those from Staten Island who later died from 9/11-related illnesses. Alex co-founded "Friends of Postcards," which helps ensure the memorial is maintained throughout the year.
On September 10, Ava Cascella, an intern on the 9/11 Memorial & Museum’s Government & Community Affairs Team, spearheaded a beautification project at Fordham University’s WTC Memorial, located on the Rose Hill Campus (below). This memorial honors the memory of the three Fordham University students and 36 alumni killed on 9/11. Over the course of her internship, Ava worked to build a bridge between her community at Fordham and her position at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The beautification began with a presentation of the colors from the Fordham ROTC and continued with brief remarks from Ava about the importance of this project and bringing communities together.
Thank you to all the Visionaries and community members who volunteered their time and energy to restore these beautiful and respectful spaces. Thank you to 9/11 Day and AmeriCorps for their support of these memorial beautification projects so that the next generation can come together to ensure these memorials remain a place of dignity, remembrance, and reflection for generations to come.
By 9/11 Memorial Staff
Previous Post
Our Third Annual Legacy of Service Honors the Work of 9/11 Family Members
Our third annual Legacy of Service evening event honored 9/11 family members Patrick Dowdell, a former U.S. Army Captain, and Patti Quigley, Board Member & Advisor, Razia’s Ray of Hope Foundation.