Twenty-four years have passed, but Joe Carlucci, owner of Valentina’s in Madison, Alabama, hasn’t forgotten the horrors of September 11, 2001. His celebrated restaurant will host a community event and fundraiser to honor the victims—and the heroes—of that traumatic day on Thursday.
Valentina’s has set an ambitious goal: raise $24,000 in just 24 hours—$1,000 for each year we remember.
It’s more than a fundraiser; it’s a tribute, a celebration of unity, and a way for one small-town pizzeria to honor the memory of nearly 3,000 lives and give back to the families and first responders still impacted today.
Highlights of the event:
- Custom memorial pizza boxes will list the names of every individual lost in the attacks—including those at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania.
- All menu items and merchandise will be priced at $9.11, from pizza to drinks to special-edition pint glasses and T-shirts.
- Goal: 2,635 items sold will help Valentina’s reach its $24,000 goal.
- Live music, local artists, a fire truck on-site, and support from sponsors including local Mercedes and Nissan dealerships.
- Silent auction and signed sports memorabilia will be up for grabs, with all proceeds going to charity.
- Live Facebook feed tracking hourly sales and donations—with updates from local radio and community leaders at Valentina’s Facebook page.
People across the U.S. can also contribute by purchasing a commemorative pizza box or a special edition item by emailing [email protected]. Alternatively, they can call in a donation to (256) 325-2240.
All proceeds will be donated to charity in support of first responders, veterans and the families of fallen heroes, the company said.
