Last weekend, Future Firefighters, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring and training the next generation of firefighters through scholarships and education, completed its 12th year of ensuring the smooth operation of the Los Angeles Marathon.

Behind the scenes of the 26-mile race, Future Firefighters provided an indispensable service, exclusively handling the logistical backbone of the marathon’s support system. This year, a team of 90 dedicated volunteers, predominantly college students enrolled in fire science programs, worked tirelessly to support the runners.

“Preparation is the key,” stated Belen Rivera, Marathon Director/Coordinator, highlighting the critical role Future Firefighters played in the event’s success.

Key Contributions by Future Firefighters:

*    Logistical Support: Starting at 3:00 AM, Future Firefighters volunteers drove and delivered essential supplies to all 22 water and support stations along the marathon route. This included water, sports drinks, first-aid supplies, cups, tables, chairs, defibrillators, and participant t-shirts.

*    Transportation Expertise: Using twenty 22-foot trucks, the volunteers ensured timely delivery of equipment and supplies to each designated stop. They also handled the return of all equipment to Dodger Stadium post-marathon.

*    Volunteer Dedication: The 12-hour commitment from volunteers, many of whom are aspiring firefighters, emphasizes the organization’s focus on responsibility, dedication, and community service. This provided invaluable real-world experience for students to work with classmates outside of the classroom.

*    Exclusive Service: Future Firefighters is the sole provider of this crucial logistical support for the LA Marathon, ensuring the event’s seamless execution.

Impact and Benefits:

*    The marathon provides Future Firefighters with vital financial support through donations, enabling the organization to continue providing scholarships and community outreach programs.

*   Future Firefighters provides the LA Marathon with the critical logistical support that allows the marathon to be successful.

“Our volunteers are the unsung heroes of the LA Marathon,” said Roland Dykes, the founder of Future Firefighters. “Their dedication and hard work ensure that runners have the support they need to complete this challenging race. This is not just about logistics; it’s about fostering a spirit of community and service.”

Future Firefighters is committed to continuing its partnership with the LA Marathon, providing essential support and fostering the development of future firefighters.

About Future Firefighters:

Future Firefighters is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and training the next generation of firefighters through scholarships, financial aid and education. The organization emphasizes hands-on theoretical and practical training along with community engagement, to empower young people to develop the skills, leadership, and resilience necessary to serve their communities in the fire services.