The Bemidji Fire Department in Minnesota has partnered with the youth-led nonprofit organization Lead for Inclusion to establish an innovative program called the Inclusive Fire Brigade. This initiative aims to enhance inclusion and accessibility within the fire service while providing opportunities for young people, particularly those with disabilities, to engage in community service and leadership development.
Asher Geller, a young individual with a passion for firefighting, expressed his excitement about the program. “I love helping people and being part of a team,” he stated. “I also have a disability and, sometimes, people underestimate me or don’t give me an opportunity.” Through the Lead for Inclusion program, Geller and others will gain access to resources and support aimed at empowering youth to take active roles in their communities.
Creating Opportunities for Inclusion
Lead for Inclusion focuses on creating accessible environments by addressing three core areas: job and leadership skill development, advocacy and outreach, and inclusive social activities. According to Shannon Murray, a facilitator for the program, “They started this organization because many of our young people, especially those with disabilities, are unnecessarily left out of leadership, jobs, and community life.” The initiative seeks to cultivate a culture of inclusion in Bemidji, with the potential to serve as a model for other rural communities.
Geller’s enthusiasm for the program led him to reach out to Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood to discuss his interest in the fire department. Sherwood recalled the impression Geller made during their initial meeting, noting his existing knowledge of fire service. “When he walked in, I saw a potential in someone who wanted to serve this community,” Sherwood remarked. Their discussions led to the development of the Inclusive Fire Brigade, a program designed to bridge gaps in accessibility within the fire service.
Program Goals and Vision
The mission of the Inclusive Fire Brigade is to demonstrate the importance of inclusion and accessibility in firefighting through education, training, and outreach. The program will host monthly meetings focused on teamwork, inclusion, and communication, with activities including fire station tours, first aid and CPR training, and discussions on career pathways.
Chief Sherwood emphasized the broader educational goals of the program, stating, “We’ll be educating the broader community — businesses, schools, other departments — to build understanding around what inclusion looks like in action.” This initiative aims not only to foster inclusivity within the fire department but also to inspire similar efforts across various sectors in the city.
Daniel Norton from Lead for Inclusion highlighted the potential for expanding inclusive employment opportunities throughout city services. “Our long-term vision is to create a model for the whole city,” he said. Norton hopes the Inclusive Fire Brigade will encourage other fire departments and organizations to consider accessibility and inclusion in their operations.
As the program takes shape, Chief Sherwood is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access various roles within the fire department. “It doesn’t necessarily have to be on a handline or on a fire engine. It could be in our station, representing our brand or representing our city,” he explained. “I’ve always said as fire chief that there’s a place for you in the fire service.”
For more information about the Inclusive Fire Brigade and Lead for Inclusion, visit their website at leadforinclusion.org or check their Facebook page.
