Broadcast: September 13, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.
From the Top of Mind series with Julie Rose
Two men had an unlikely idea for how America should remember 9/11: turn a day of tragedy into a day of service and unity. Could they make it a lasting American tradition?
Every September 11th, millions of Americans honor the victims of 9/11 through service. But how did the anniversary of the attacks become a National Day of Service?
Host Julie Rose traces the story back to Jay Winuk, who lost his brother Glenn, a volunteer firefighter and EMT who rushed to the World Trade Center, and David Paine, who shared his vision of turning September 11th into a day of unity and service.
With no staff, no budget and no roadmap, the two set out to make their idea a national tradition. Along the way, they face setbacks, find unexpected allies and work to win support in Washington.
But official recognition is only the beginning. Can they inspire millions of Americans to serve year after year—and help keep the memory of 9/11 alive for generations who weren't there?
GUESTS
Jay Winuk, co-founder of 9/11 Day
David Paine, co-founder of 9/11 Day
Terry Sears, nonprofit leader and former executive director of Tuesday’s Children
Fred Dombo, attorney and lobbyist
Cindy McGinty, 9/11 widow
Andrea Sorkin, 9/11 Day event leader