The purpose of the 5K Run/Walk event is to commemorate the 2,977 people killed on 9/11 and to honor the spirit and resilience of New York City. The course follows what came to be known as the “Hero Highway,” named after the crowds that would gather to cheer the thousands of rescue workers making their way to Ground Zero in the days and weeks following the attacks.

Once again, our city and our nation are faced with unthinkable loss, and the number of casualties will be more than any of us can bear. But there is reason to hope. And although we won't be able to come together to celebrate the rescue and recovery workers who persevered to recover the victims, clear Ground Zero, and enable our city to rebuild and renew, please take a moment to celebrate the brave individuals who are heroically rising to this new challenge.

The pandemic has brought forward a new wave of first responders: doctors, nurses, supermarket workers, warehouse personnel, truck drivers, transit workers, police officers, firefighters, sanitation workers, and so many more. “Hero Highways” are now popping up across the country with every shift change.

Each year, at our Community Day, together with the New York Says Thank You Foundation, we create Stars of HOPE—expressions of compassion and connection through creativity. Join us now in creating your own physical or virtual star to share in your home or online via social media. Together we will heal.