Nathan Benderson Park is turning its six-floor finish tower into a place of remembrance on Sept. 11. The park hosts a free 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and Day of Remembrance from 8 a.m. to noon, and everyone is welcome. Participants use the tower’s north and south stairways, climbing 17 times at their own pace to mirror the stairs responders climbed at the World Trade Center. There’s no cost, no stopwatch, and no pressure.
The event honors first responders, active-duty service members, and veterans, and more than 300 people are expected to turn out. Organizers are also using the morning to connect people with mental health support. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center will share information about its virtual Talkspace program, giving attendees a concrete next step if they or someone they love needs help.
If you’ve been looking for a tangible way to mark the day, this is it. Show up between 8 and noon, take the stairs at your own speed, and stand alongside your Sarasota neighbors. Will you be climbing on Sept. 11? Let us know in the comments.
