The IAFC Foundation, providing first responders with the educational opportunities they need to lead the fire service and serve and protect our citizens, has received $61,630 as part of the Motorola Solutions Foundation's Public Safety and Security Institute. The Motorola Solutions Foundation is the charitable arm of Motorola Solutions, Inc.
Through the grant, the IAFC Foundation will expand the reach and participation in the Future Leaders Scholarship Programs and the IAFC's Officer Development Program (ODP), including Company Officer Leadership Symposia (COLS), Chief Officer Leadership Symposia and Executive Chief Officer Leadership Symposia.
"This grant ensures that first responders have the tools they need to successfully serve and protect our communities. The IAFC Foundation scholarship awards are important now more than ever as many departments have been forced to cut continuing education and tuition reimbursements from their operating budget. The Foundation is proud to be able to give back to the fire service and our local communities by financially supporting the future fire service leaders as they work to become well versed in the areas of human resources, finance and budgeting, strategic planning, leadership and management," stated Anthony P. Campisi, president of the IAFC Foundation and president/CEO of Glatfelter Insurance Group.
This grant will enable the Foundation to establish and partner with the IAFC to deliver regional officer development training programs that will allow hundreds to participate in the symposia. The Foundation is pleased to partner with the Henrico County Division of Fire and the Sandy Springs Fire Rescue Department to hold ODP courses in Central Virginia and the Greater Atlanta area respectively.
The IAFC's ODP-COLS is the first of its kind, providing leadership courses specifically created for developing fire and emergency medical leaders. The IAFC affirms professional development is the planned, progressive, lifelong process of education, learning, self development and experience. The association is committed to individuals' development as fire and emergency services leaders through its officer development programs.
Additionally, the grant will contribute to the expansion of the Foundation's Future Leaders program by awarding eight scholarships for first responders to continue their educational pursuits.
"Motorola Solutions is dedicated to helping people be their best in the moments that matter," said Matt Blakely, director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation. "The Motorola Solutions Foundation aligns itself with this mission by supporting programs like the IAFC Foundation that train people how to respond to potential safety problems or recover from the loss of a first responder. We are proud to see these valuable programs make a positive impact in the communities where we live and work."