Naperville Professional Firefighters Raise Thousands for Camp 'I am Me'

Submitted by the Naperville Professional Firefighters

On Oct. 7, The Naperville Professional Firefighters and joined forces to raise funds for a great cause.  The event included a Naperville Fire Engine on public display while firefighters pairing up with the Black Finn servers, bartenders and other staff to perform the duties of the day. Firefighters wore their fire gear and their smiles as they stepped out at Blackfinn, raising more than $4,000 for child burn victims to go to camp.

With the BlackFinn donation of 10 percent of the day’s sales, the generosity of the patrons who pitched in general donations and the success of the 50/50 raffle, this year’s event surpassed the totals of the 5 preceding years by a significant margin. 

As in years past, all proceeds go to support the children who attend the Illinois Fire and Safety Alliance’s Camp ‘I Am Me,’ a summer camp for child burn victims. Camp ‘I Am Me’ is the IFSA’s most popular program and has earned the honor of being recognized as the first American Camping Association (ACA) accredited burn camp in the United States.

The mission of the IFSA Burn Camp is to provide a safe environment for children who have experienced significant burn injuries. It is their goal to provide a non-judgmental atmosphere in which children have the opportunity to build their self-esteem as they enjoy the varied activities that make up their camp experience.

The Naperville Professional Firefighters have supported the IFSA mission for five years by hosting this annual benefit event. This year marked the first year of the partnership with BlackFinn American Saloon.