James Trimble is passionately dedicated to helping others and campaigning for his peers to do the same. So, it’s no wonder that his Musical Tribute for the 10th anniversary of 9/11 and the victims of Hurricane Irene came off with such heart and success. As part of the night of reflection he held for the Chapel Haven community, James also took the opportunity to collect non-perishables for Connecticut Food Bank, 
His efforts paid off. James and the Chapel Haven community donated 126 pounds of food to Connecticut Food Bank, along with $40, as a result of the 911 Tribute.
James has been doing great things since high school where he got the helping spirit as part of the Leo Club, a high school version of the Lion’s Club and the group Friends Helping Friends. “Students need to make a difference after graduating,” from high school, James said. “It’s not just hurricane season or holidays — it’s every day throughout your whole life.” After coming to New Haven, James landed an internship at Connecticut Food Bank, where he got see up close the need for food in the community. He also volunteered with the New Haven Symphony and assisted in collecting food as part of a benefit concert they held for victims of Hurricane Katrina. At the recent benefit/tribute held at Chapel Haven, dozens of residents quietly reflected as James played CDs of music he describes as “patriotic and sacred.” As residents watched — some with bowed heads and some standing along with him as a sign of respect to victims of both 9/11 and Hurricane Irene, James sang along with facial expressions that aptly reflected the depth of the lyrics. His carefully chosen musical lineup included two versions of the National Anthem, God Bless America, Ave Maria, Amazing Grace, Bridge Over Troubled Water and one of his favorite new songs, “The Prayer” by Celine Dion and Josh Groban.
He collected boxes of food — cereals, soups, pasta, tuna fish — and noted the increased need these days among people who once had no problem affording food for their families. ‘It’s for everyone who needs help — the working poor,” James said. Being able to carry out his love of helping others is only one important aspect of life that Chapel Haven has helped him realize. James said that since coming to Chapel Haven, he’s been able to “connect” with his two sisters and brother “in many ways I didn’t know possible.”
James, who works in the mailroom of First Niagra Bank sorting mail and delivering packages, said high school students everywhere should call upon their “inner-strength,” to stop bullying and start helping in communities.
When the evening ended there were lots of ” thank yous” to James as residents walked out the door. “It’s definitely needed since we’re so close to New York,” Chapel Haven graduate Rob Works said of the moving tribute. “The songs were beautiful. I thought it was good. It was very emotional.” After reflecting on 9/11 through the hour long program, Ben Stone said, “It was a sad day.” Gordon Landau, also a member of the Chapel Haven community, who has strong connections to New York City, took the time to show up with a donation of cereal, canned soup and baked beans, but didn’t stay for the tribute because he wanted to get back to his apartment to relax. “I think it’s nice to share — There’s too much greed in the world,” he said. James, who would second that sentiment, said, “I’ll help throughout my life — all the way through to my final years.”
