Southwest Volunteer Fire Department

Seven years back, the Southwest Volunteer Fire Department on cable path in Auburn discovered itself loosing resources and also at danger of closing its doorways. But after some brainstorming, the department’s firefighters developed a solution: hot, steaming chili.

This year’s seventh yearly chili dinner and raffle is returning to the station Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., increasing funds for the volunteer fire division.

People in the community are invited to eat dinner using volunteer firefighters from the department, observing the gents and ladies that provide their area while they enjoy live songs and discover fire motors on display.

A raffle may also be held, with a design 870 Remington shotgun, two $100 Visa present automobiles as well as 2 30 ounce Ozark Trail Tumblers as awards.

Although the division features restored from its serious financial predicament seven years ago, Lt. Tom Peavy said funds lifted through the dinner today check-out purchasing training materials, resources, liquid for firefighters, and other smaller materials.

“This sort of saved us in a way, ” said Capt. David Konstant. With much better gear and training materials, Konstant said the department has also been in a position to hire even more volunteers over the years because of the fundraiser.

While the event’s focus is increasing money, Peavy stated the primary intent behind the event has actually evolved into allowing the community to meet up and interact with the firefighters.

“One of the biggest things would be to inform them that we’re right here, ” Peavy said. “A countless people coming down Wire Road overlook this building and so they don’t realize this really is a fire division. Very often they don’t spot the importance of this fire division until they want it. That is one particular things that permits town to note that we have been here, we are offering the city and we’re strictly volunteer.”

The department is made up of 35 volunteers who offer the full range of fire and medical service to 55 square kilometers of southwest Lee County.

Last year, the function lifted above $5, 000, and Peavy said their goal is placed even higher this year.

Presale seats are offered for $5 at the Southwest Volunteer Fire Department. Tickets are $7 the evening of. Raffle tickets tend to be $5 or 5 for $20 and certainly will be purchased the evening regarding the event.