WOW – what a night at the Winnebago Fire Chief’s Association meeting hosted by the Northwest Fire Protection District in Rockford Illinois. We were invited down to do a keynote on recruiting and retaining volunteers in today’s fire service by Deputy Chief Lindman. The night started off with a few snacks, small talk and typical firehouse stories. The chief had told me ahead of time that they would serve supper, but – this was a meal fit for a king. The woman’s auxiliary prepared and served the meal and boy, I know a few restaurants that could learn a thing or two from these women.
Salad with choice of dressing, mostaccioli for an appetizer, followed by a full rack of ribs, baked potato, kernel corn, and buns. Oh, did I mention ice cream over a chocolate brownie for dessert. This meal was DELICOUS and served with such precision – the teamwork by itself was worth watching. Thanks Ladies!!
A short business meeting followed the meal and then it was show-time. We did a 1hr highlight reel of Backpacks 2 Airpacks, focusing on recruiting and retaining Gen Y, and the future of the fire service, and the importance of a graduation ceremony. Finishing right on time with Q & A, I found my audiance to be very attentive and gracious. I am both humbled and honored to have been given the opportunity to meet such a great group of people.
Supper with my brothers and sisters was AWESOME – Just like one big family
Those in attendance review their handouts
Chief Rufer discusses the pros and cons of testing recruits during the training process.
