( CNN ) -- Taryn Davis is helping young military widows find the emotional support they need . Davis was just 21 years old when her husband , an Army corporal , was killed in Iraq . Four months after his death , she created the American Widow Project . The nonprofit has connected more than 900 young military widows through the Internet and weekend retreats since 2007 . CNN asked Davis for her thoughts on being chosen as one of the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2011 . CNN : Where were you when you got the call that you 'd been selected as a top 10 CNN Hero ? Taryn Davis : I was getting everything ready for an American Widow Project retreat in Myrtle Beach , South Carolina . Widows were arriving as I was on the phone . Words truly can not describe what this means to me , my fellow widows , our husbands and all the healing and camaraderie that will come from this amazing platform and honor . The ( Hero ) title , though , should be Heroes , as it is a title that encompasses not only my life , love and dedication , but that of every widow that is a part of the American Widow Project and each of the heroes whose lives and legacies they carry on . CNN : What do you hope this recognition will mean to the American Widow Project ? Davis : This means that more widows will know they are not alone . It may seem like a simple statement , but more than 3,000 widows had their lives changed with two men at their door . After they get that news , the real struggles start . And that 's where the American Widow Project comes in . CNN : How will you use the $ 50,000 award that you receive for being selected as a top 10 CNN Hero ? Davis : It will be an integral part in helping facilitate the daily running of the American Widow Project , but most importantly it will go toward our events for the widows throughout the country . We cover all costs for their time with us , so the only thing they need to worry about is healing and connecting with their fellow widows . With nine to 10 events held nationally throughout the year -- with hopes to do more -- these are a major aspect of the organization and connecting this generation 's widows . This money will truly go toward not only saving lives , but the legacies of our nation 's heroes . CNN : What do you want people to know most about your work ? Davis : The wounds from those affected by these conflicts , many can be seen with the naked eye . For this generation 's military widows and widowers , their wounds ca n't be seen ( even ) though they are some of the most severe . It is due to that fact that most of those suffering from the most major of losses do n't receive the support and compassion they so deeply deserve . The work the American Widow Project does recognizes their sacrifice , survival and perseverance and allows them to find healing in a title they never thought they 'd hold . Read the full story on CNN Hero Taryn Davis : . Connecting a new generation of military widows .
Taryn Davis was named one of the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2011 . Hide Caption Davis : This recognition will help more widows know they are not alone .