What is PCB (Project Common Bond)? Project common bond is a program/week long camp that has been crafted by Tuesday's Children, a non profit organization made solely for the families of 9/11. Over the years it has grown exponentially and expanded overseas to international victims/campers as well. How did you get involved? My family had been involved with other activities Tuesdays Children has provided for families effected and we heard about this program. I wanted to see what it was like, attended my first year with my oldest brother, Anthony, in 2010 and then 2011 the following year with both my brothers, Matthew and Anthony. I completely fell in love with it and it's been a staple in my life ever since. How many years have you attended? I have been a participant for 2 years, Group Leader in training for 1 year and I just finished my 2nd year as a Group Leader. How was this year different than previous years? Every year it gets more and more emotional, for me at least and in the best way possible. This year, especially, was more special than others because of the role that I have now along with a few others. We have transitioned over from camper to counselor. It was very interesting because, you know, we had one year of training and then one year before this of full blown counselor responsibility. I guess last year was all about digging my feet in, building the traction and getting comfortable in that new role. This year? Forget it. It has been the most rewarding because it has become a normal thing to "want to talk to" me and the few others in the same position more than others because we have been there, we get it. The participants actually looked up to us and felt more comfortable with us because we know how they were feeling, odds are we've felt that same way and could still be feeling it. It was touching. It made my heart feel warm and I am feeling just so blessed and grateful after last week. What did your general schedule look like this past week? So, basically, every morning we are responsible, as group leaders to get everyone up and make sure they make it down to breakfast in the Caf. From breakfast we drop them off for their Dignity Groups. In dignity they get really close with each other learning more about communication and they share their experiences and just open up in general. After dignity we pick them up for lunch, they to straight from there to fixed and flex creative electives. They get the chance to be creative and have an expressive outlet along side the friends they make and just chill out and have fun. Dinner follows, usually a keynote speaker or a group activity and games after and then of course DANCE PARTIES and bonfires. Which is incredible, some international participants never have smores before PCB. It's quite amazing to witness. What experience stood out to you the most? This year, along with every year, just meeting new people and then also seeing returning faces is my favorite part of the week. I am so amazed every single year to just be among them, they truly are the most fascinating people. What story stood out to you the most? I'd have to say, this year the stories that caught my heart the most were the USA 9/11 kids. What was interesting to learn about them was the fact that most of them don't even remember their dads. They just had been born. So, it was interesting to compare my story to theirs. Same tragedy, same story, different situations. It was intriguing and it made me feel close to them. What do you think people take most for granted who haven't personally been effected by terrorism? I think people often miss the fact that it happens to everyone; all cultures, all regions, all religions, all colors. We can't put the blame on a group of people, even blaming at all isn't going to bring our loved ones back. As a whole, we need to stand by each other's sides and try our best to change the world. I think everyone's biggest mistake is thinking that hate will solve more hate. What positive experiences have come from being a part of PCB? Everything you could possibly imagine...I feel sane when I am with these people. I am happy beyond words and I feel love. Plain and simple. Every positive and amazing word you can thing of, multiply that by a million and it still wouldn't compare to this experience. The friends I have made, the people I've met and the stories that I have so graciously heard will stay with me forever. How can the general public get involved? APPLY!! You would be so lucky..you need to be apart of this experience even just for a year as a volunteer. This safe haven is a "must have" for ANYONE. Lastly, What does peace mean to you? Peace is not the absence of war. It is having the strength to be okay with not being okay, picking yourself up and finding true happiness without any hate.
