A Promising Future is Ahead with Your Generosity: Support the 9/11 National Memorial Trail

As the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, approaches, the day remains a vivid personal memory for most. Many remember precisely where they were and what they were doing. For others, particularly younger generations, know only of the day through history lessons. The September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance exists to ensure that the significance of that day is never diminished. 

The mission of the Alliance remains focused on preserving the memory of those lost and honoring the courage, resilience, and unity that followed that day. The 1,500-mile 9/11 National Memorial Trail, which connects the three hallowed sites—the National September 11th Memorial and Museum in New York City, the Pentagon Memorial in Virginia, and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania–serves as a living tribute that carries the nation's commitment to "Never Forget" forward for generations to come.

Looking ahead to 2026, the 25th anniversary will be a defining moment for the Trail and for the thousands of families, veterans, first responders, and visitors who find meaning along its 1,500 miles. With the nation preparing for this milestone, now is the time to finish the work by closing remaining gaps, having signage in place, and ensuring the Trail is ready to welcome all who come to remember, discover, and connect.


This year, The Alliance invites you to support three key priorities that will make this vision possible:

1. Building the 9/11 National Memorial Trail

Support completion of the first purpose-built section of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail, a 20-mile connection from the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail to the Flight 93 National Memorial. This has been an ongoing project since the first groundbreaking in September 2020. To date, 1.5 miles are complete, with remaining segments advancing through design, permitting, and property acquisition.

2. Planning Critical Trail Connections

The primary planning priority is the feasibility study for the proposed 30-mile connection from Pottsville to Jim Thorpe. This corridor would link the Schuylkill River Trail in Pottsville to the Delaware and Lehigh Trail in Jim Thorpe, advancing a continuous route through Middleport, Tamaqua, and Panther Valley. The study will evaluate safety, environmental, and cultural considerations, as well as engineering feasibility, right-of-way strategies, and maintenance needs, to position segments for grant and construction readiness. In late February, the Alliance joined Senator David G. Argall and regional partners for a kickoff meeting to plan the proposed route.

3. Education and Signage

Recent momentum in Pennsylvania demonstrates the impact of coordinated signage. The Shapiro Administration is collaborating with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), PennDOT, local governments, and communities to prepare the 9/11 National Memorial Trail for the 25th anniversary in 2026. As part of this effort, nearly 750 new signs are being installed across 25 counties and 129 municipalities along the Pennsylvania portion of the 1,500-mile route. This program increases visibility and accessibility, guiding walkers, cyclists, and visitors while inviting reflection and remembrance. Advancing the work now ensures that by 2026, the Trail in Pennsylvania will be fully marked, highly visible, and ready to welcome all who seek to honor, reflect, and carry the legacy of resilience forward. Learn more in the Governor's press release.

Building on this success, the Alliance hopes to emulate the Pennsylvania model in Maryland and to extend consistent education and wayfinding across the entire 9/11 National Memorial Trail route. These priorities will include coordination with state and local partners, fabrication and installation of wayfinding and educational signs, and stewardship plans that keep signs clear, accurate, and in service for years to come.

These priorities lead the Alliance's work alongside additional projects, events, and ongoing stewardship across the route. As preparation for the 25th anniversary accelerates, donor support is essential in sustaining momentum. Contributions may be made via the donation button below. To designate a gift for a specific priority, please include a note with the donation indicating “Building,” “Planning,” or “Education and Signage.” Undesignated support will be applied where needed to advance these priorities and related work.

The Alliance sincerely appreciates the continued support of its community and donors. As the Alliance advances priority initiatives leading into the 25th anniversary in 2026, contributions from supporters are vital. Every contribution, large or small, makes an immediate difference, strengthening the 9/11 Trail's connectivity and visibility. With each effort funded, the Trail becomes more accessible and more resonant, ensuring that the legacy of September 11, 2001, is remembered by all who travel its path. Join the Alliance in preserving the legacy of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail by supporting its efforts today!

The September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance needs your help now more than ever to continue this year’s remarkable momentum. Help us kick off our 2026 efforts by contributing today to the continuing development of the 9/11 National Memorial Trail that serves as a living tribute to the fallen heroes of September 11, 2001.

Great ways you can give back to the Alliance this fall:

• Support us by making a tax-deductible donation. Donations can be securely made online at 911trail.org or by downloading our printable donation form and mailing a check (made out to the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance) to P.O. Box 308, New Eagle, PA 15067.
• Explore the option of contributing from your IRA. If you have an IRA and are 70.5 years or older, you may be eligible to donate up to $100,000 tax-free, directly from your IRA to a qualified charity such as the Alliance. This direct transfer will be allocated toward satisfying your Required Minimum Distribution. A Qualified Charitable Distribution is excluded from your taxable income and is a direct benefit to the charity of your choice. To learn more, contact your IRA administrator about a direct distribution to the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance.
• Unlock additional tax benefits by considering a stock donation. Additional tax benefits are available by donating long-term appreciated stock. You can donate long-term appreciated securities, like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, directly to the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance through our investment account. Doing so will result in a larger donation to us while eliminating your related capital gains tax. Consider donating your stock through our 911 Fidelity Investment Account (account #Z73-070858; DTC: 0226). Contact your financial advisor to get started.

Thank you, in advance, for your continued support of the September 11th National Memorial Trail.

See you on the Trail!

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER

"As a major employer, landowner and member of many communities across the Greater Mid-Atlantic region, WM continues to work for a more sustainable tomorrow. We are committed to making positive social impacts through environmental education and conservation. This allows us to dedicate resources to fund programs that make a difference in people’s lives," Chris Farley – WM Area Vice President.