A Governor George Pataki Center funded documentary, Out of the Darkness tells the story of what happened after September 11th, when New York faced the enormous task of recovering, rebuilding, and helping thousands of families whose lives had changed forever.
Led by Governor George E. Pataki, public servants worked through sleepless days and nights, first responders and recovery workers continued their mission, families fought to ensure their loved ones would never be forgotten, and New Yorkers came together to rebuild a city many feared would never be the same.
Twenty-five years later, an entire generation has grown up with no memory of that day. Out of the Darkness preserves the firsthand voices of the people who lived it, made the decisions, supported the families, and helped rebuild New York.
The world remembers September 11th. This is the story of what New York did next.
Help Us Make Sure No One Ever Forgets
The Governor George Pataki Center invites individuals, foundations, and corporate partners to help us complete and share this historic documentary while preserving its lessons for future generations.
Excelsior Sponsor — $100,000
Premier recognition with the documentary, premiere, and 25th anniversary programming.
Leadership Sponsor — $50,000
Major recognition surrounding the film, premiere, and anniversary programming.
Legacy Sponsor — $25,000
Recognition as a partner in preserving the story of New York’s recovery.
Remembrance Sponsor — $10,000
Recognition for helping carry the stories and lessons of September 11th forward.
Never Forget Sponsor — $5,000
Recognition for helping carry the stories and lessons of September 11th forward.
Twenty-five years ago, we promised we would never forget. Help us keep that promise.
Please email 53@GeorgePatakiCenter.com with any inquires.
Pataki Center Freedom Award Recipients
Jane Rosenthal
Jane Rosenthal is an acclaimed American film producer and businesswoman. She is best known as the co-founder of Tribeca Enterprises, which operates the Tribeca Film Festival, alongside actor Robert De Niro. The festival was founded in 2002, shortly after the September 11 attacks, with the aim of revitalizing the Tribeca neighborhood and boosting the local economy through art and film. Rosenthal has produced numerous successful films, including Meet the Parents, The Good Shepherd, and About a Boy. Throughout her career, she has been a major force in promoting independent film, supporting emerging filmmakers as well as a variety of charitable causes.
Liev Schreiber
Liev Schreiber is an American actor, director, and screenwriter known for his versatility and gravitas in both film and television. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Ray Donovan in the Showtime series Ray Donovan, which earned him multiple award nominations. Schreiber has appeared in numerous films, including Scream, The Manchurian Candidate, Spotlight, and most recently, the hit Netflix show The Perfect Couple. In addition to his film work, he is an accomplished stage actor, performing in Shakespeare productions and earning a Tony Award for his role in Glengarry Glen Ross. He is also a noted voice actor, having narrated many documentaries. Schreiber is known for his tremendous humanitarian and charitable work throughout the years.
Bernadette Castro
Bernadette Castro is an American businesswoman and political figure known for her leadership in both the private and public sectors. She gained prominence as the CEO of Castro Convertibles, a furniture company started by her father, where she became the face of the brand in the 1950s through TV commercials. Later, she served as New York State Commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation under Governor George Pataki from 1995 to 2006, during which time she was responsible for overseeing hundreds of parks and historical sites across the state. She is also active in philanthropy, supporting various causes including children's health and education.
Andrew Sabin
Andrew Sabin is an American businessman and passionate philanthropist with a strong focus on environmental conservation. Sabin is passionate about environmental causes and founded the Andrew Sabin Family Foundation, which supports wildlife conservation, climate change mitigation, and sustainable energy solutions. He is also actively involved in funding research to combat diseases such as cancer. Sabin has been recognized for his contributions to environmental activism and philanthropy, particularly through his support of organizations like the Environmental Defense Fund.
