Staff Report
WARSAW — On Sept. 11, Kosciusko Community YMCA will host a memorial stair climb to honor the heroic efforts of first responders in the 2001 attacks.
The community is invited to complete 2,071 steps — the equivalent of the 110 flights of stairs in the Twin Towers — on a treadmill at the YMCA. The event will also raise funds for Hoosier Burn Camp, an Indiana non-profit that “provides life-changing experiences for young people who have suffered the physical and emotional trauma associated with a severe burn injury,” according to the news release from the Kosciusko Community YMCA.
“Our annual summer camp and monthly events create experiences where young burn survivors can just be kids in a safe and supportive environment,” said Mark Koopman, the organization’s executive director. “We are so grateful for the YMCA’s commitment to helping us in our mission to support children who have lived through tragedy.”
The stair climb is free to all YMCA members and guests. Registration is required via the YMCA’s Calendly site. Participants will complete their steps on treadmills in the lobby, alongside donation buckets for Hoosier Burn Camp.
The YMCA is also providing one week of free access to all first responders and military personnel, as well as their immediate families.
“To thank all our past and present first responders and active and retired military, we’re offering free access to our YMCA facilities from Sept. 11 to Sept. 17. It is our way to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice on that day 22 years ago,” said Jim Swanson, CEO of Kosciusko Community YMCA.
To receive a free one-week pass in September, first responders and military personnel can stop by the YMCA’s lobby or call 574-269-9622.
For more information about Kosciusko Community YMCA and its activities, visit kcymca.org.
