The public sculpture was dedicated on September 11, 2007. More than 300 individuals had their hands molded to create the sculpture. The molds were used to make cast bronze hands of as many sizes and shapes as there were contributors. The bronze hands are integrated into the sixteen- foot tall stainless steel sculpture as a tangible reminder of the 911 tragedy and the heartfelt response by the people of our region.

The project was made possible Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society, the City of Omaha, and Mayor Mike Fahey. The project budget, totaling approximately $55,000, was paid for by funds that were raised from corporate sponsors and private individuals. The expense total was kept to a minimum because of generous in-kind donations and substantial volunteer work by many individuals, including Alston, who donated nearly all of his services.