Evolution And Building on Strengths

Throughout its history in the United States, the firefighting industry continues to evolve and build upon its strengths. In Colonial American times, insurance companies hired their own fire fighters. The firemarkers were the signals by which help was summoned from a particular insurance company in the event of a fire. This authenic United Fireman's Insurance marker from the Fireman's Hall Museum in Philadelphia hangs on the front of our home as a reminder of the history and evolution of firefighting in the United States.

As time moved on, firefighting became part of the public trust and an intregal part of local governments organized across our great nation. Over the last 233 years, the major evolutions of firefighting have included many positive developments.

• Increased public awareness of fire hazards brought fewer incidents and minimized risks to life and property
• Strengthened building codes and materials have decreased the frequency and severity of fires
• Detailed, frequent firefighter training has decreased injuries and risks for firefighters and fire victims
• Service enhancements including EMS level options have improved community connectedness and assistance given by local fire departments

In Iowa alone, there are more than 20,000 firefighters organized into 871 departments. These career professionals and volunteers serve 3 million Iowans each year in more than 40,000 emergency calls.

The various associations that exist to support fire departments in Iowa have an opportunity to continue to building on this history of evolution and strengths. This opportunity comes in the form of legally organizing as a non-profit corporation and obtaining 501 (c) (3) tax exemotion with the IRS.

Taking this step is an opportunity for local firefighters to formally confirm what they have been focused on all along: contributing to the greater community good through emergency response services. This also gives the incredible supporters of Iowa fire departments the opportunity to deduct their support from their federal and state taxes.

To start the process of your association becoming a legal non-profit, contact FlashPoint Fundraising President Dawn Svenson Holland today.