Akron will mark twenty five years since the September 11 attacks with a stair climb honoring the first responders who died that day. The Safety Forces Support Center will host the 25th Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on September 11, 2026, at 6 p.m. at The University of Akron’s InfoCision Stadium.
The event is organized in partnership with The University of Akron, the Summit County Executive’s Office, Akron Fire Local 330 and FOP Lodge No. 7.
Climb Honors Those Lost
Participants will climb the equivalent of 110 stories, matching the height of the World Trade Center towers. The climb represents the nearly 3,000 people who died on September 11, 2001, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel and other first responders who answered the call for help.
Individuals, families and community teams are invited to take part. Those who are unable to climb can still support the cause by donating or becoming an event sponsor.
A Tradition That Began in 2021
The inaugural stair climb took place in 2021 to mark the 20th anniversary of the attacks. Organizers say the event’s return five years later gives the community another chance to honor those who were lost while supporting those who continue to serve.
Proceeds Support First Responder Mental Health
Money raised through the climb benefits the Safety Forces Support Center, which provides mental health support and training for first responders. The Center primarily serves Summit County and also assists personnel in Portage, Stark, Medina, Cuyahoga and Wayne counties.
Services address the occupational stressors faced by fire, law enforcement, EMS and dispatch personnel, along with the physical, mental and emotional effects those stressors can create. The Center also trains mental health professionals and chaplains who work with first responders.
How to Get Involved
Registration, donations and sponsorship opportunities are available online. Anyone interested can visit runsignup.com/Race/OH/Akron/akron911stairclimb to sign up or learn more.
