Who We Are
The William J. Martin Foundation was created to honor the legacy of those affected by the events of September 11, 2001. Our mission is to provide support, resources, and a sense of community to families, first responders, and individuals impacted by this tragedy.
Through our initiatives, we strive to preserve the memories of those we lost, offer meaningful assistance to survivors, and create a lasting impact that extends beyond remembrance. We believe in turning loss into purpose by fostering resilience, education, and community-driven support.
Our work is driven by a deep commitment to honoring, supporting, and inspiring—ensuring that those affected by 9/11 are never forgotten and that their legacy continues to make a difference.
Board Members
The WJM Foundation’s Board of Trustees helps lead with heart—supporting our mission, honoring Billy’s legacy, and making sure we continue to make a real difference in people’s lives.
Bill Coleman | Dana Dudukovich | Gary McLaughlin | Evelyn Ronga | Vince Ronga | Eric Thieringer | Raechyl Thieringer
The Story of the WJM Foundation
Turning Loss Into Legacy
Shortly after the events of September 11th 2001, a few friends were sitting at a New Jersey Devils game - - the tragic loss of our friend Billy Martin wouldn't leave our minds. This senseless twist of fate that took Billy from us would not define him; his legacy was far greater than that.
His charm won over many friends over his lifetime, and many of those friends were also trying to come to grips with his tragic end. The thought then occurred that Billy's wealth of friends should be brought together to remember his laughter, his thoughtfulness, and his love of life.
What better place to do this than one of Billy's favorite places, a golf course. And while we are gathered at a golf course, why not make something positive out of the event and keep Billy's spirit alive by helping others in his name. The more we spoke the more creating a foundation made sense. The rest is history. After 21 outings, close to $650K has been raised in Billy's name. Old friends get together and keep his memory alive. New friends feel his spirit and feel as if they knew him. We will continue this foundation as long as we are able - - and Billy's spirit will live on.
About Billy Martin
William Martin was a foreign currency trader for Cantor Fitzgerald in NYC. He was a graduate of Don Bosco HS in Ramsey, served in the Navy for four years and a 1993 graduated with honors from Seton Hall University. Born in Brooklyn, raised in Upper Saddle River and lived in Hoboken for many years before settling to Denville.
William Martin was someone that after meeting him once, you would never forget. He cared very much about his family, friends and loved ones. He not only was the life of the party, he threw the party! He was an avid golfer, he never admitted to scoring higher than 100; when he did, the score was always "99". He was a TRUE Giants football fan and never missed a home game. His tailgate parties at Giants Stadium were legendary.
Billy liked to be the first and he liked to be the last in any situation. He was often the first to spread anyone's news and often the last to get the last word in. He had those eyebrows and New York accent. A unique combination of his mother's warmth and humor and his father's generosity and gregariousness. He was indeed their "Little Prince".
We remember his wedding day, his amazing smile and proud face. We remember watching the towers crumble with him inside, just wanting to catch him like he had done for us so many times before. Some of us may not remember the last words spoken or even told him how special he was or even thanked him for his friendship. We can only hope that he already knew.
When good men die their goodness does not perish, but lives though they are gone. He is survived by his sister Laura and his niece and nephew Emma and Owen.
Keep the Legacy Alive
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