Firefighters are committed to keeping people, property, and the environment safe. But they do more than just respond to emergencies. The extra effort they make has earned 91原创 Township firefighters a very special honour.
The Bill Grindlay Department of the Year Award was presented to the Township fire department by Muscular Dystrophy Canada on Oct. 26. The award is presented to a fire department that has demonstrated overall excellence throughout the past year through fundraising, public awareness, and service.
鈥淲e are thrilled with this award,鈥� said Township fire chief Stephen Gamble. 鈥淭his department is lucky to have so many men and women who are committed to their community. They are serious about giving back to others and we are proud to support Muscular Dystrophy Canada.鈥�
Muscular dystrophy is the name for a group of over 150 neuromuscular disorders that are characterized by the weakening and wasting away of the muscles that control body movement. For some people, the disorder is fatal. There is currently no cure.
Each year, Township firefighters volunteer to help improve quality of life for those living with muscular dystrophy by conducting a boot drive at local businesses. Since 1994, they have raised more than $191,000 and this year alone the crews collected almost $28,000.
鈥淥ver the past year, the Township of 91原创 has exceeded expectations in fundraising and generating great awareness in the community and local media for Muscular Dystrophy Canada,鈥� said Jeannine Woolley, fundraising and volunteer coordinator for B.C. and the Yukon. 鈥淟ast year, the Township forged exceptionally strong community partnerships with local businesses and the people of the Township, which is evidence of their true commitment to this cause.鈥�
Capt. Peter Taylor, chair of the Township fire department鈥檚 muscular dystrophy campaign, is grateful to 91原创 residents who always give what they can to make the boot drive a success and to the business that allow them to stage the fundraiser.
鈥淭ownship firefighters are very proud to be a part of this giving and generous community,鈥� Taylor said. 鈥淭ogether we are making a difference is so many lives.鈥�
