Ever since I was little, it was transparent to see the vast network of community held within my small town. Everyone knew everyone else around town. Seeing this network of companionship among us, I always wanted to help my community in any ways I can. About 11 years ago my Dad became a volunteer firefighter in this town. Seeing how much that has influenced him by helping others, I decided to join myself. March of 2022 will mark 4 years of service as a junior firefighter where I live. In these 4 years I have seen what men and women can do to have a big impact on what they have their minds set to. For example, with $10,000 given to us by the town we refurbished the entire fire department interior with just the help of our fellow firefighters. This bond of brotherhood further strengthened us all to want to help the community even more. In my area we also have a annual Spring Festival in which citizens would eat and come by the Main St. In the year of 2021, me and the working engineer at the local fire department set up a tent with a fire extinguisher simulation as well as signs talking about the PASS acronym (pull, aim, squeeze, spray). That day we met hundreds of kids who wanted to help out other people in their community, like I did so long ago. Just seeing that full circle made me believe I am completing my dreams of helping out. It is such a wonderful and wholesome moment that everyone should be able to accomplish one day.

I volunteer as a firefighter in order to help those around me in my community. For so long, this community has given so many things to me. Its given me a home and a sense of family. Ever since I was young, I have always wanted to help give back. About 11 years ago, my dad joined the Dillon County Station 2 Fire Department and as I child I thought it was so intriguing. This March marks my 4th year as a member of Dillon County Station 2 Fire Department as a junior. I'll finally be a official firefighter come January 21th (thats my 18th birthday). The Fire Department also offers a sense of belonging and community when one sets foot in the doors. Almost immediately are you greeted with a sense of brotherhood and passion. This passion is contagious and palpable. The reason this sense of belonging is so thick is because when you're riding on the way to a fire, you know that these men that surround you are your guardians that night. You know they will have your back no matter what. You know that they will do what it takes to prevent the loss of someone's life or property. You want these type of men beside you at all times on the fire ground. Just having this sense of brotherhood towards helping others is what I've always longed for since day one, helping others. I am confident to say that my dream is accomplished and is going to continue to grow as I never stop helping others around me, no matter where I am. I will do my best to help those in need whenever they call out.