Island fire cadet program gets boost from Allstate

Photos and story by Ray Pauley

Public Information Officer, Grand Island Fire Co.

On Aug. 4, the Grand Island Fire Co. received continuing support from Allstate Insurance Co. in the form of a $500 grant to promote its fire cadet program, according to Chief Greg Butcher.

School-age youths between 16 and 18 years old are given an opportunity to learn about the fire service by participating in restricted activities that are carefully tailored to develop character as well as capability. Sean O'Donnell is one of several GIFC cadets who has exhibited exceptional individual initiative. On July 23, he successfully completed a 90-hour firefighter "boot camp" training course at the Erie County Training Center in Cheektowaga, according to GIFC President Tammy Gorman, who is a cadet training officer.

The GIFC offered congratulations to O'Donnell and heartfelt thanks for Allstate's generous support of the entire cadet program.