9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lambeau Field going virtual this year

GREEN BAY (WLUK) -- Organizers of an area 9/11 fundraising event say its traditional format will change this year because of COVID-19.

The 8th annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, normally held on the steps of Lambeau Field in September, will be hosted as a virtual event.

The stair climb raises money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), which provides resources to help families of fallen firefighters rebuild their lives.

“We are certainly disappointed to cancel this year’s 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lambeau,” said Jim Johnson, president of Pierce Manufacturing. “We honor the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, which tirelessly works to support the remembrance of America’s fallen firefighters, assist their families, and reduce firefighter deaths and injuries. For this reason, we encourage all to take part in our virtual fundraising opportunity at any level possible."

Organizers set a virtual fundraising goal of $125,000, and ask all who would like to participate to still climb on their own or make a direct donation.

Last year’s event raised more than $115,000. Nearly 2,200 members of the fire service, their families, friends, and community members climbed the steps of Lambeau Field to pay tribute to the 343 FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives on 9/11.