Philanthropy

Local 473 is committed to giving back to our community as a whole, which is why throughout the year we engage in numerous charitable activities as well as sponsorships of local youth athletic teams.  In addition, several of our members mentor teenagers seeking a future career in the fire service through the Waukegan Fire Department’s Fire Explorer Program.

 

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)

For 60 years the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) has partnered with MDA to raise money for worldwide research efforts to eradicate 40 neuromuscular diseases.  Local 473 is a proud participant in these efforts.  Every year we participate in the “Fill the Boot” campaign in which our members solicit funds from the general public to go towards MDA.  In addition, we hold an annual golf outing with the proceeds going to support MDA.  As a result, every year Local 473 donates thousands of dollars to help fight muscular dystrophy.

 

MDA also holds an annual summer camp for kids afflicted with muscular dystrophy.  As part of this camp, MDA has a firefighter day in which local firefighters spend time with the campers and shows them some of our firefighting equipment.  Several of our members routinely participate in this event which is greatly received by both the campers and MDA.

 

Pediatric Ward Christmas

In the hopes of making their Christmas a little brighter, each Christmas Local 473 buys and delivers toys to children who are spending their Christmas in the pediatric wards at Vista East and Vista West Medical Centers.

 

Juarez Cup

Local 473 contributes and participates in an annual charity basketball game against the Waukegan Police Union.  The proceeds for this event go towards the Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County who provide recreation programs and opportunities to people with disabilities.

 

Earth Day Cleanup

Through partnership with the Waukegan Park District, Local 473 participates in an annual Earth Day cleanup in which many of our members spend a day collecting garbage around one of the City’s parks.  Our hope is that we may set a positive example towards keeping our community clean and support the Park District’s efforts towards a clean environment.