San Diego Fireman’s Relief Association: “We Take Care of Our Own”

The San Diego Fireman’s Association was founded in 1907, back when members of the Fire Department had no benefits from the City.

Initially, the fund was used to buy burial plots at Greenwood Memorial Park to establish the “Fireman’s Rest” area, which was reserved for firefighters and their families. Since then, the goal of the Association has broadened; it now seeks to bind members together in a closer bond of fraternity and improve social relations and welfare among members.

The San Diego Firefighters’ Benevolent Fund (previously called the Widows, Orphans and Distressed Firefighter’s Fund) assists active and retired firefighters in times of financial distress. The fund is perpetuated solely through outright gifts and money or fundraising endeavors.

A recent fund raiser was held for retired Firefighter Mike Spangler, who is seriously ill with cancer. His fellow firefighters wanted to make certain he and his wife could spend quality time together. They raised $10,000 so that they can travel around the country in their motor home.

Pictured below is Board President Fire Captain Dan Faddis presenting the check to Mike and his family at SDFRA’s Christmas Party on Dec. 8.

Photo courtesy GaryWisePhotography.com

Coming of age and seeking to be a viable and growing entity supporting its members, the Association has developed a three year plan that will chart the course for the organization as we enter our centennial year in 2007.

For more information of the SDFRA, visit www.sdfra.org.