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Valentina’s launches '$24K in 24 Hours' 9/11 memorial fundraiser

Photo: Valentina's

September 11, 2025

Valentina's by Joe Carlucci will host a memorial fundraiser to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the September 11 attacks today, Sept. 11, according to a press release.

To mark the 24th anniversary of 9/11, Valentina's is launching an ambitious campaign: $24,000 in 24 hours — $1,000 for every year since the Sept. 11 attacks. The event will unite the Madison, Alabama, community where Valentina's is located, and supporters across the country in remembrance, reflection and charity.

Custom memorial pizza boxes will list every name of the victims from the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Flight 93.

"Every name on that box is someone's loved one — a father, a mother, a child, a hero. This isn't about pizza. It's about remembering who we lost and showing the country that even a small-town shop can make a big impact. This fundraiser is a visceral, visual tribute designed to resonate far beyond Alabama," Joe Carlucci, founder and owner of Valentina's, said in the press release.

Event Highlights:

• Memorial pizza boxes: Custom pizza boxes will feature the names of every individual lost in the 9/11 attacks, including those at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania.
• $9.11 menu and merchandise: All menu items — from pizza to drinks — as well as special-edition T-shirts and pint glasses will be priced at $9.11.
• Sales goal: Selling 2,635 items will help Valentina's reach its $24,000 goal.
• Live entertainment and community support: Live music, local artists, a fire truck display, and sponsorship from local Mercedes and Nissan dealerships.
• Silent auction: Featuring signed sports memorabilia and community-donated items, with 100% of proceeds going to charity.
• Live Facebook broadcast: Hourly updates, donation milestones and community interviews will be streamed all day via Valentina's Facebook page.