CEO
The Effects of September 11th
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The Voice, Fall 2001
The terrorist attacks of September 11 have had a profound effect and will plague all of us for years to come. Certainly all of us will remember the explosions in the World Trade Center, indelibly etched in our minds.
As we pause to reflect on the devastation of the event, and try to get life back to some semblance of routine, our hearts reach out to the victims and families. It has been amazing, and uplifting to see how our country can come together in trying times. Certainly in our area, citizens have come forward to help, however they might. Our own UCP employee Rita Graham actually volunteered as an EMS in New York.
The ripple effect from this event, however, has had (and will continue to have) a far reaching effect. Most obvious has bee the families of the victims and rescue workers. Beyond these personal tragedies are the industries and jobs affected by fear and the general economic decline. All of this is bad enough, but the struggles go even further. The last group impacted, ironically enough, will be vulnerable people in our own area and around the nation, who relied on the generosity of our nation for vital services and supports.
The financial impact that is before us will be challenging. The Stock Market fluctuation has impacted foundation giving, Federal and State funds have been put on hold, and generally donors are being cautious. The net affect will be diminishing funds to vulnerable citizens from both the government and private sector. These are the same people who were in need prior to September 11th.
Now this is an awkward point to make, because in some way it sounds like we are crying foul in desperate time of need. Indeed, we all want to help in the New York relief efforts.
Given all of this, what should we do? First, we must understand the far-reaching effects of this terrorist event. It has affected all of us. Yes the victims in New York need help – but so do your own neighbors here. Please keep all of this in mind as you make your charitable decisions.
Thanks for your care and concern and God Bless America.
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