10th Anniversary Fundraiser Organized by Katsimatides Foundation

A simple but moving event entitled “Color and Hope” took place 10 years after the founding of the humanitarian organization “Johnny and Mikey Katsimatides Foundation for Life,” founded by the actress Anthoula Katsimatides in the memory of her brothers Michael and John.

Named for and inspired by the tragic loss of the foundations two brothers: John Katsimatides who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 while working for Cantor Fitzgerald and Mike Katsimatides who died by suicide in May 1999. JaM for Life raises money for charities that embody the spirit, character and lives of these brothers. This years proceeds will benefit both the 9/11 National Memorial & Museum and The Samaritans of New York Suicide Prevention Services.

Anthoula Katsimatides, member of the committee for the creation of the Memorial Museum, said that “decades of relatives and friends of our family take part in this effort, not only to keep my brothers’ memory alive but also to offer a helping hand to people in need, sending at the same time the message that people have rights for life and peaceful co-existence.”

As for the establishment of the Memorial Museum of 9/11, Mrs Katsimatides stressed the fact that “despite the place reminds us of the gruesame attack and the tragic loss of thousands of people, the way that the Museum is built offers another aspect of life, as it is full of color and lights. Thus, it is a monument of hope for the next day, so that humanity does not face similar scenes never again.”

She also marked the work of the Samaritans as “unique and important,” as she explains, “everyone will someday face unexpected occasions and we are never ready to deal with them, but there are always people and institutions who have the appropriate knowledge, the experience and the will to stand by us showing that life is continued…”