Come From Away, the hit Broadway musical tells the amazing true story about the small town of 9,000 in Newfoundland who welcomed 7,000 strangers from 90 countries on September 11, 2001.

Kevin Tuerff was there. In his memoir, Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11, Kevin tells the story of how Gander’s compassion, then and now, has ignited a spirit of kindness that renewed his spirituality and has inspired a new tradition of an annual “giving back” day at Kevin’s company that has since spread.

In this conversation, "Kevin T," as he was portrayed in the musical, dives into how this experience touched his life and opened his eyes to the global migrant and refugee crisis.

Books will be available for purchase ($20) and signing by the author.

Pay It Forward 9/11
To find a way to thank the Newfoundlanders for their compassion, Kevin founded Pay it Forward 9/11 in 2002. After the 9/11 terror attacks in America, the world was united, saying "Never Forget." Kindness to strangers and community service were heightened across the world. In 2019, the world is polarized, in need of compassionate action. Join us by encouraging your workplace and family to participate in the 18th annual Pay it Forward 9/11. Wednesday, September 11, 2019 is a national day of service and remembrance in the United States.

Do three good deeds to strangers on the anniversary of 9/11. Remind people to remember the souls of those who were killed that day. Invite the recipient of your kindness to “Pay it Forward” by doing something similar to others. To inspire others to participate, post a note or photo about the action on social media, using #PayitForward911.

Consider volunteering or making a donation to assist asylum seekers in ICE immigration detention in Elizabeth, NJ. Contact First Friends of NJ/NY.