When the Twin Towers were attacked on September 11, 2001 Bethany Anne Putnam was living in Asheville, NC. Like most people, she wondered how she could be of assistance as she watched the broadcasts depicting the tragedy. Two and a half years prior to 9/11, Bethany founded an organization that addressed a need for nationally-based disaster relief within the Episcopal Church. Her phone rang on September 19th, and Trinity Episcopal Church was curious how quickly could she get to New York to help them. She packed a few bags and drove through the night, not knowing what to expect or how her days would be spent. Hired as the Disaster Director for St. Paul’s Chapel, Bethany spent six weeks implementing systems, caring for the first responders and creating opportunities for hundreds of volunteers every day at Ground Zero. She had full security clearance for the entire site and she will provide a first-hand account of the days immediately following the attacks. It was equally heart-breaking and life-affirming to be in New York at that time. Bethany’s stories will paint a picture of a city that came together and took care of each other in the most basic of ways. It was a humbling experience and she was proud to play a role alongside the brave men and women who were called upon to serve.

Twenty-one years ago, Bethany Anne Putnam was the foremost expert on domestic disaster relief and volunteer coordination within the Episcopal Church. Her experience and training led to being hired immediately following 9/11, as the Disaster Director of St. Paul’s Chapel at Ground Zero in New York City.