TINLEY PARK, IL — A nonprofit often recognized for its superhero-esque efforts found recently found themselves in need of their own rescue.
Project Fire Buddies, a locally-based nonprofit fueled by firefighter volunteerism, has sent ripples of support out to children battling critical illness and their families. Started in 2016, the organization partners with local chapters to bring comfort, fun, support and companionship to their “fire buddies.” The now not-so-small and very mighty organization has expanded to more than 175 chapters in more than a dozen states. The nonprofit’s 1,200+ volunteers have impacted more than 750 children, with $5 million gifted to support and uplift families, according to its website.
CEO Kurt DeGroot knows that its work has left a lasting impression on the communities it’s touched, but still he couldn’t have expected what would happen when the organization faced failing HVAC units at its Tinley Park headquarters. Both units were only half-functional, DeGroot said. As summer heat was expected to bear down, it was critical the units be replaced.