If you've never climbed 110 flights of stairs surrounded by people who showed up for something bigger than themselves, it's hard to put into words. But that's exactly what happened this weekend at the 3rd Annual LJW 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, and if you were there, you already know what we mean.
This event has become one of the most meaningful days on the LJW calendar. Every year it reminds us why we do this work in the first place: community, purpose, and showing up for each other when it matters most.
Here's a look back at what happened, what it raised, and why it mattered.
What Is the LJW 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb?
The Stair Climb is held every year at Arrowhead Stadium in honor of the first responders who gave their lives on September 11, 2001. Participants climb the equivalent of 110 stories, symbolizing the height of the World Trade Center towers, one stadium staircase at a time.
It's physically demanding by design. That challenge is the point. Every step is meant to be a small, deliberate way of honoring the men and women who climbed those towers 25 years ago and never came back down.
110 Stories, One Community
What made this year's climb so powerful wasn't just the stairs. It was who showed up to climb them.
First responders from every line of service took part, shoulder to shoulder with civilians from every walk of life. Mothers and fathers climbed alongside their kids, leading by example and teaching the next generation what it means to remember, to serve, and to show up for others.
That's the thing about this event. It's humbling every single time, and this year was no exception. Watching families climb together, knowing exactly why they were doing it, is the kind of moment that stays with you long after your legs stop burning.
Walking away from Arrowhead this year left us with an even deeper gratitude for the lives lost and sacrifices made 25 years ago, and a renewed appreciation for the men and women who continue to serve and protect our communities every single day.
The Impact: $105,053.66 Raised for SAFE
Here's the number we're most proud of: together, this community raised $105,053.66 for the Surviving Spouse and Family Endowment (SAFE).
SAFE provides $40,000 within 48 hours to the families of first responders lost in the line of duty. That fast turnaround matters. It means a family doesn't have to wait weeks for financial support during the hardest moment of their lives; they get it almost immediately, when it's needed most.
Every dollar raised this weekend goes directly toward that mission.
Every Role Mattered
Whether you climbed all 110 stories, came out to spectate and cheer, bought a shirt, donated, or simply helped spread the word, you were part of this. There's no small role in an event like this one. Every single piece of it added up to over $105,000 for families who need it most.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
None of this happens without the generosity of the sponsors who back this event year after year. We're endlessly grateful for their partnership and their commitment to this mission.
A heartfelt thank you to:
- ECA - Electrical Corporation of America
- 1st Phorm
- GoRuck
- Missouri Soybean Association
- S1 Enterprises
- Kaylee From KC Photographer
- Mid Island Audiology
- Cruise Holidays KC
- Mulder & Associates - American Family Insurance
- Lockton
- Colby Higgins Senior Mortgage Advisor | CommunityAmerica Credit Union
If your business supported the Stair Climb this year, thank you for standing behind a cause that gives families real, immediate support when tragedy strikes.
Want to Be Part of It Next Year?
If this year's event moved you the way it moved us, here's your practical next step: mark your calendar for next year's climb now, before life gets busy and it slips your mind. Follow @lexijwellness on Instagram so you're the first to know when registration opens, and if you know a first responder family or a fellow mom who'd want to climb with you, send them this post today.
The best way to make next year's climb even bigger is to bring someone with you.
Thank You, Truly
To everyone who climbed, cheered, donated, volunteered, or simply shared the word: thank you. This event exists because of you, and its impact is because of you too.
We hope to see all of you on the stairs again next year. 🙏🏼
