Students between the ages of 12 and 17 have a chance to train hands-on with seasoned firefighters through Union Fire Company’s popular Cadet and Junior Firefighter Volunteer Program. The program offers its volunteers up to $2,400 in college tuition reimbursement. It also provides invaluable preparation for those interested in pursuing a career as a firefighter.
As cadets, tweens and younger teens acquire real, on-the-job experience – like providing assistance within the fire company, participating in drills, and engaging in community activities. Organizers say the program is designed to help young adults build confidence and develop real skills while learning life-saving techniques.
Kailee Hufnell, 16, is a 4-year veteran of the program and started out as a cadet. She says she is grateful for the program’s many benefits.
“I’ve learned to take control in situations, and I’ve gained a ton of confidence in the way I talk to people of all ages,” she said.
Across the board, volunteers say they appreciate the unique opportunity to give back to the community.
“The best part of being a volunteer firefighter is knowing you can make a positive impact on someone’s life, even on their worst day,” Andre Wilson, a captain with 19 years of service said. “Being there for the community when you are needed – for me, that is rewarding in itself!”
Deptford’s Junior Firefighter Program (the next step up from the Cadet Program and designed for high school juniors and seniors), supports older teens who are making the transition into college or preparing to take the next step in their career.
Junior firefighters study the ins and outs of fire safety, first-aid, and CPR. They learn about the specialized equipment and trucks, and gain real-world experience by assisting firefights at the scene. Junior firefighters are also entrusted with critical exterior jobs – like running hoses and positioning ladders.
Longtime volunteers like 16-year-old Julianna Leidy praise the career preparedness and connections gained while participating in the program.
“Being a junior firefighter has helped me to prepare for emergencies and taught me how to work under pressure,” she said. “I also love helping others and the friendships I’ve made in the fire service.”
When they turn 18, junior firefighters can become active volunteer firefighters and are able to move to the Deptford battalion of their choice. Many move on to become career firefighters. Still others use the leadership skills they have fostered to impress college admissions officers.
Three recruitment events for the Cadet and Junior Firefighter Volunteer Program are coming up in March: Friday, March 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to noon; Tuesday, March 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
All events will be held at Union Fire Company at 2401 Good Intent Road in Deptford, N.J.
For more information or to register, visit blackwoodterracefire.org, email BlackwoodTerraceFire@gmail.com, or call 856-232-6100.
