In the summer of 2018, 2021 Firefighter Hero Award recipient Quention Curtis, who is a firefighter with the Chicago Fire Department, founded the Black Fire Brigade. It was a response to inner city crime, which impedes the future of young people in our city and disproportionately affects Black communities. The non-profit organization provides assistance with tuition for young individuals receiving training as firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians. The Black Fire Brigade also offers additional training and mentorship to participants. The organization has seen over 250 of its members successfully complete the program, including 60 single moms and three homeless students.
October is Fire Preparedness month, and the American Red Cross of Illinois would like to commend first responders such as firefighters for their bravery and commitment to their communities. The American Red Cross of Illinois celebrates the everyday heroes in our communities and honors their acts of great bravery, dedication, and service through their annual Heroes Breakfast event. The event also serves as a way for the organization to highlight partnerships with corporations, like Grainger, that make the lifesaving mission possible.
This year also marks Grainger’s 20th anniversary partnership with the Red Cross. Since the beginning of their relationship, Grainger has donated more than $21 million in cash and product to the American Red Cross in support of the organization’s mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. Grainger is committed to doing the right thing in their local communities, collaborating to encourage, strengthen, and sustain a diverse and vibrant working world. Grainger’s efforts focus within the areas of education and workforce development, and disaster preparedness and response.
Learn more about the 2021 Red Cross Heroes, and how you can help here.
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