The O’Hara & Hunter Consulting team came together to attend the annual Firefighters for Healing Red Tie Gala, which was held at The Depot in Minneapolis on November 6th. As a proud member of the Firefighters for Healing Board of Directors, Angie Hunter was emotionally touched by the support and energy surrounding this special evening. As in years past, the night was filled with laughter, tears, love, and good times as people came together to raise funds to support burn survivors and their families. “As a Board member, I am honored to report this year’s fundraiser was a success! The goals and objectives for the event were met and we are thankful to all the supporters and those who attended”, said Hunter.
Founded in 2011 by Minneapolis firefighter Jake Laferriere, Firefighters for Healing is a non-profit 501c (3) organization that provides support and resources to burn survivors and their family when tragedy strikes. When Jake suffered 3rd and 4th degree burns to his hands and arms during a backdraft explosion while fighting a house fire, he found himself in the hospital room next to two young kids who were also being treated for burn injuries. The hope and strength these two boys taught Jake is ultimately what inspired him to use this experience and eventually build the foundation of what Firefighters for Healing is. Read more of Jake’s story, here.
The evening was hosted by Founder Jake Laferriere and Chair Chris Dunker, with Kare 11’s Rena Sarigianopoulos as the emcee. There was a special family testimony from Camp Red experiences shared. Hearing about the self-esteem gained and new skills learned warmed the hearts of all in attendance. And to hear first-hand from the family of an 85-year-old patient, who recently survived burn trauma, and the support the family received along their journey – including a comfortable place to stay – is the reason we are all here.
The 800+ guests enjoyed the ambiance of jazz music, silent and live auctions, a delicious meal, live entertainment from cover band Viva Knievel, and so much more. All monies raised at the 2021 Red Tie Gala will be directed toward the Transitional Healing Center project and Camp RED. After breaking ground in May at the site of the Transitional Healing Center, progress is moving along! The Kraus Anderson crew has just begun work on the second level of the building, which will be home to 12 one-bedroom suites available to first responders experiencing chronic health issues, including firefighters and other burn survivors and their families. To learn more about Firefighters for Healing, the Transitional Healing Center or to donate, visit their website at: www.firefightersforhealing.org.