Congratulations to our fire cadets who graduated their first academy tonight. Those who were recruits have now earned the title FIRE CADET. We are so pleased with the growth of the program over the last several years and the positive changes that we have been able to make. This is the largest group of highly active cadets in our history and we are excited to take it to the next level.
We have gotten the questions what does the program cost, what is the return, what are we doing for recruitment, how do we pull this off and make it possible.
Cost…time and sweat are the 99-percent of the cost. The curriculum comes from and is based off of Ohio-36 hour training, with several other pieces. The gear is older out-of-date, but still serviceable and safe gear from the FCFD and from other departments that have graciously donated to us. Our fire association buys them food a few times a year and pays for their cadet t-shirts which are a huge marketing piece for us, but a place of pride and belonging for them.
The return first and foremost is knowing that we are a part of positively influencing the minds and lives of young men and women to go out into the world. Whether they join a fire department or just go into the world as a more well-rounded individual we are making a difference. We have seen the return already with several of our previous cadets joining the ranks of the FCFD, and several more in the program with the same intention. They actively serve right alongside our firefighters in the community, giving back, volunteering time, and being dedicated to what we love.
Recruitment? We are getting young minds 1-4 years prior to them being eligible to make the commitment to become a firefighter and we are building them up. We teach skills, build confidence, build strength, and make them prepared to attend a fire academy once graduating. We have the proven results and are proud to say it works.
What makes this work? People and the “buy-in” to the program. The people make this work. From the Fire Chief down through the ranks, it is the people willing to make this happen. Its hard work and many that are involved in seeing the program through. Numerous officers and firefighters are involved in teaching and working with the cadets. They are treated as they are a part of our family and they are one of us.
Thank you to our cadets for all their hard work and dedication. Thank you to the parents, grandparents, friends, and family that make sure they are able to attend meetings, trainings, events, and emergency runs.
Let the training continue!