Disasters Untold: September 11

In this episode, American Red Cross volunteers who were inspired to join the organization in the wake of the horrific 9/11 attacks, recall that fateful day 20 years ago and recount their experiences helping others. These everyday heroes give a voice to all who worked to provide healing and hope to fellow Americans. Each remains an active member of the Red Cross today, continuing to help those in need in their New York communities and beyond:

• Lumber-yard worker Sal Montoro of Syosset, N.Y., brought and distributed building materials at Ground Zero in the days and weeks after the attacks. He joined the American Red Cross on Long Island in January of 2002. 
• Richard Sanford, a teacher from Brooklyn, N.Y., helped transport volunteers from the Red Cross headquarters in Brooklyn to the Financial District. He joined the American Red Cross in Greater NY on September 13, 2001.
• Carmela Grande, a Manhattan nurse, made beds at a relief center for exhausted first responders and provided a comforting presence to victims’ families. She joined the American Red Cross in Greater New York in November of 2001.
• Georgine Gorra, a social worker from Brooklyn, N.Y. provided emotion support to families, first responders and fellow volunteers. She joined the American Red Cross in Greater New York September 11, 2001.

 

Producers & Hosts: Olivia Kozlevcar and Michael de Vulpillieres 
Editors: Olivia Kozlevcar and Chi Kong Lui
Photo: Daniel Cima