My Passion: “putting others first” What motivates me to volunteer for a fire department? What inspired me to become a firefighter and paramedic? No firefighter can truly answer either of these questions. I have always had a passion for firefighting since I was a child. Apparently, it didn't go away from me. The reasons I volunteer with Crow Mountain Fire Department in Russellville Arkansas are three-fold. I like helping people in difficult situations, I am competitive and I enjoy the adrenalin rush of getting to a scene fast. I have had many hands-on opportunities to see people struggle, die, and cry for help. Those experiences have allowed me to become the man I am today. Many people say putting one's life at risk for others is not a good life decision. I believe that I have been blessed with the opportunity, passion, and heart to help others. The vast majority of people will never have to run to a disaster instead of escaping from one. Volunteering as a firefighter offers me the opportunity to save lives, but it is not free. Christopher Reeve stated, “I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Despite the fact that Christopher Reeve was not a firefighter, his quote offers a straightforward explanation of firefighting. A firefighter's job is mentally and physically demanding in many ways. In my role as a volunteer Firefighter, I must always be ready to put my life on hold so someone else can live. Even though it can be difficult at times, knowing that you have made someone's life better gives you a tremendous sense of satisfaction. We need more firefighters who have a passion for the job and who are properly educated. Due to an increase in disasters, first responders are needed more than ever before. According to recent studies, the number of motor vehicle wrecks, fires, and medical calls will rise as the population of the United States grows. People who volunteer to be firefighters will not be able to give you a straight answer when asked why they do it. Somehow, firefighters are born with a greater passion than the average adult. When the passion for firefighting surpasses understanding, it will impact a person's actions, goals, and desires. My goal is to use this scholarship to translate my passion for saving lives into action and to direct my efforts in that direction. Firefighting is not a profession for me like being a business owner, a sales professional, a receptionist, a server, or even a teacher would be. In my opinion, it is an obligation to make my community and country better. This scholarship would especially help my family, since I come from a large family, that will be sending four kids to college it costs substantially more than your typical family. I am currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in emergency management at Arkansas Tech University as I hope to work in a fire department one day. After I graduate from college in 2024, I intend to enroll in the fire academy and paramedic school; the scholarship would help me put money aside for this. *Below I have attached: My 911, device code proving the department I work for and stating who my Cheif and Captain are. If you need to contact Crow Mountain Fire Department feel free.