SHREVEPORT, La. — On Friday, the YMCA of Northwest Louisiana will host its ninth annual commemorative stair‑climb, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The all‑day event invites both YMCA members and the broader public to help reach a collective goal of climbing 1,980 steps – the exact number of steps in each World Trade Center tower.
How the climb works
Stairmasters will be set up in the lobbies of the BHP YMCA and the Lash YMCA beginning at 5 a.m. Participants can climb at their own pace throughout the day, with the option to log individual flights or contribute financially. Those who donate $10 or more, or who complete 110 flights of stairs, will receive a commemorative 9/11 pin as a token of appreciation.
Supporting local first responders
All proceeds from the event will be directed to first‑responder families in Shreveport and Bossier City, providing much‑needed assistance to those who continue to serve the community. “We believe part of our role is to serve as a conscience for our community,” said Raymond Lee, chief executive officer of the YMCA of Northwest Louisiana. “It is our responsibility to remind people daily of the importance of wellness and it is our job to provide a place where the community can come together for various important events.”
Why the stair‑climb matters
The stair‑climb blends physical fitness with remembrance, encouraging participants to honor the memory of those lost while supporting living heroes. By framing the event as both a wellness activity and a charitable fundraiser, the YMCA underscores the Christian principle of caring for one’s neighbor and the traditional family value of community service.
Getting involved
Anyone interested in joining can sign up online through the YMCA’s website or stop by either location on the day of the event. No prior fitness level is required; the stair‑masters allow participants to set their own pace and take breaks as needed. Families are especially encouraged to attend, making the climb a shared experience that reinforces the importance of health, faith, and civic responsibility.
Looking ahead
As the YMCA marks its ninth year of this commemorative climb, organizers hope the tradition will continue to grow, drawing more participants and raising greater support for first‑responders in future years. The event reflects a broader trend of community‑based wellness initiatives that align physical health with charitable purpose, a model that many faith‑centered organizations are adopting across the nation.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
