Volunteer firefighters have long been the backbone of fire protection in Cranberry Township, Butler County, Pennsylvania, and beyond.
But the numbers tell a stark story.
In 1970, there were 300,000 volunteer firefighters across Pennsylvania. But by 2015, that number had drastically decreased to just 50,000.
Recognizing this alarming trend, the Cranberry Township Community Chest launched a multi-faceted initiative designed to recruit, train, and retain volunteer firefighters while fostering community engagement and education.
2015 CTCC Project of the Year: The Mobile Firefighter Training Center
At the heart of the initiative and project was a $130,000 mobile firefighter training center, owned and operated by Cranberry Township but available to fire departments countywide. The innovative facility is more than just a training tool; it’s a community engagement powerhouse and travels to schools, businesses, and community events to teach essential fire safety skills. It also serves as a public relations tool, showcasing the work of local fire departments and encouraging residents to consider volunteering. The hope at the time was that the sheer presence of the mobile training center would entice residents to want to become volunteer firefighters.
To attract recruits, the initiative also partnered with BC3 to offer free firefighter training and scholarships for volunteers who complete the certification process. The scholarships are valued between $1,000 and $3,000 annually.
This project builds on the success of previous initiatives for CTCC and the community. It represents a forward-thinking solution to a pressing issue: ensuring Butler County remains safe, connected, and resilient.
