On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Cincinnati veteran Jim Serger turned remembrance into action. The former service member is pedaling across the United States to raise funds for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit that provides financial assistance to first‑responders and the families of those who have fallen in the line of duty.
From local stories to a national ride
Serger, who grew up in the Greater Cincinnati area and served in the Army, has spent years preserving the memory of 9/11 through books and community talks. This year, he decided to expand his outreach by embarking on a cross‑country bike tour that began in early August. His goal: to collect donations that will help Cincinnati’s police, fire, and emergency‑medical personnel, as well as the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice on that tragic day.
“Every mile I ride is a tribute to the heroes who ran toward danger,” Serger said during a recent interview with WLWT. “I want our community to feel the impact of their bravery and to know that we stand with them, not just on September 11, but every day.”
Community backing and local impact
The effort has already drawn support from local businesses, churches, and civic groups. Several Cincinnati restaurants have hosted fundraising nights, while the city’s veterans’ organizations have organized donation drives at their meetings. The campaign’s online portal, linked through the Tunnel to Towers website, allows residents to contribute directly to the cause.
“Our city has a strong tradition of caring for those who protect us,” said Pastor Mark Daniels of a downtown congregation that pledged to match donations up to $5,000. “Jim’s ride embodies the Christian principle of serving our neighbors, especially those who have given so much for us.”
Why the Tunnel to Towers Foundation matters
Founded after the 2001 attacks, the foundation provides emergency financial relief to first‑responders who suffer injuries, loss of income, or other hardships related to their service. It also offers scholarships for the children of fallen heroes and funds memorial projects that keep the memory of 9/11 alive.
Local first‑responder leaders have praised the initiative. “The support we receive from organizations like Tunnel to Towers makes a real difference for our families,” said Captain Laura Martinez of the Cincinnati Fire Department. “Jim’s ride reminds us that the community stands behind us, and that encouragement fuels our commitment to protect and serve.”
How to help
Residents who wish to contribute can visit the Tunnel to Towers donation page, mentioned in the video interview linked at the top of the original WLWT story. In‑person donation boxes are also being placed at several downtown venues, and a special “Ride‑Along” event is scheduled for September 30 at the Cincinnati Convention Center, where Serger will share stories from his journey.
By turning a personal mission into a public fundraiser, Jim Serger demonstrates how one veteran’s dedication can rally a city around a cause that honors both faith and service. As the nation reflects on the legacy of 9/11, Cincinnati’s own community steps forward to ensure its first‑responders receive the support they deserve.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
