Following the attacks of September 11, 2001, the needs of the New York City community are highlighted and understood through Hobfoll's Conservation of Resources theory. The stress theory provides a framework for the social responses observed. Children, critical members of this wounded community and the most vulnerable to traumatization, are discussed. The conceptual development and implementation of the World Trade Center Children's Mural Project, an international arts initiative, is described. The author's personal experience as a survivor is also shared.