“We gather, we tell stories, we seek advice. We do everything that we can think of like we would as a family because we think of ourselves that way — as a family. And that firehouse kitchen table is very important: it signifies the culture of the fire service.” – Chief Matt
A kitchen table in a fire station is more than a place to eat or to rest a cup of coffee. While it may not be the scene of the action, it’s a place where the day’s events can be reflected upon, where coworkers become friends who become family, where jokes are told, and support is sought. In some cases, the table can even be a bridge, connecting firefighters whose situations vary greatly but who are bonded by an inextinguishable desire to serve their community. Whether that kitchen table is in a fire station in midwestern Ohio or Nairobi, Kenya, its importance is never lost on those who are fortunate enough to be gathered around it.
Join host and former firefighter/paramedic Phil Klein whose guest, Chief Matt, brings an international story from the road through his work with the nonprofit organization Africa Fire Mission. Founded in 2012, its members are “committed to increasing the sustainable capacity of fire departments in developing communities” through “training, empowerment, support, and encouragement.” Although firefighters in these communities lack resources, funding, equipment, and even public support, they are dedicated to obtaining the knowledge they need to advance their mission to help others.
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Africa Fire Mission Website
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