NY CRE & Contractors for Tunnel to Towers to hold annual cocktail tribute on Oct. 15 honoring Fortino of Metropolis Group

Manhattan, NY The New York Commercial Real Estate & Contractors for Tunnel to Towers (NY CRE & Contractors for T2T), an exclusive philanthropic group supporting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, proudly announces its Sixth Annual Cocktail Tribute, taking place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 3 World Trade Center on the 80^th floor.

This year’s gathering carries extraordinary significance, marking 25 years since the September 11^th attacks while coinciding with America’s 250^th birthday, two defining milestones that reflect both remembrance and resilience.

This year’s honoree is Frank Fortino, president and CEO of Metropolis Group, Inc., recognized for his longstanding commitment to supporting first responders, veterans, and the communities they serve. Throughout his career, Fortino has exemplified the values of leadership, integrity, and civic responsibility that align closely with the mission of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

“It is truly humbling to be recognized by an organization whose mission carries such profound meaning for New Yorkers and for our country,” said Fortino. “The courage and sacrifice demonstrated by our first responders and military heroes continue to inspire all of us. Supporting Tunnel to Towers is an opportunity to honor that legacy and give back to the individuals and families who have given so much in service to others.”

The event will convene leaders across commercial real estate, construction, engineering, architecture, public safety, and building services for an evening dedicated to honoring courage, sacrifice, and service. Guests will enjoy premium cocktails, curated hors d’oeuvres, a live auction, and appearances by special guests while supporting one of the commercial real estate industry’s most meaningful philanthropic traditions.

The organization also extends its sincere gratitude to Silverstein Properties for hosting this year’s event at 3 World Trade Center, an iconic location that stands as both a symbol of resilience and a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of New York City.

“It is especially meaningful to gather at the World Trade Center to commemorate the sacrifices that were made 25 years ago on September 11^th,” said Bill Dacunto, executive vice president of Silverstein Properties and the 2025 honoree. “This event is a reminder that honoring our first responders and military heroes is not simply about remembrance. It is about continuing our responsibility to support the families and communities who carry those sacrifices forward every day.”

“For New Yorkers, and especially for those connected to the built environment of this city, the memory of September 11^th remains deeply personal,” said board chair James Pirot. “Twenty-five years later, we continue to honor the heroes we lost, support the families who carry that sacrifice forward, and reaffirm the values of service, courage, and unity that define this country.”

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation was born from the sacrifice of FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, who laid down his life on September 11, 2001, after strapping on his gear and running through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers. Today, the foundation continues its mission by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star families and families of fallen first responders, while building smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders nationwide. The Foundation is also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness.

“As our nation celebrates its 250^th birthday, this event serves as a reminder that America’s strength has always been built upon sacrifice, service, and an unwavering commitment to one another,” said Pirot.

Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and its ongoing mission to support the heroic men and women who serve our country and communities.

Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets are now available.

For more information – nyrecocktailevent.t2t.org

Since 9/11, Tunnel to Towers (T2T) has been helping America’s heroes by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially-adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. T2T is also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America to Never Forget September 11, 2001.

SOURCE: NY CRE & Contractors for Tunnel to Towers