In Porter County, Liberty Township Volunteer Fire says a grant from The Center of Workforce Innovations (CWI) will help offset the cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) for a volunteer firefighter entering Fire Academy training. Fire Chief Brian Duncan expresses appreciation for the partnership and the impact the funding will have on preparing volunteer firefighters for service. Officials say the READI-funded Work-Based Learning Supportive Services grant helps individuals access employment and career training opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
“When the Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department approached us about this opportunity, I immediately recognized a way CWI could help,” said Susan Utterback, Senior Business Consultant. “Part of our mission is to connect employers, community organizations, and other partners with the resources they need to address workforce development challenges. We were able to help remove that financial barrier and support a future firefighter as they begin their training journey. It’s a great example of how strategic investments can benefit individuals, strengthen organizations, and ultimately support the region.” The award was made possible by the READI-funded Work-Based Learning Supportive Services grant. For more information, contact Susan Utterback, Senior Business Consultant, at (219) 215-4016.
To learn more about becoming a volunteer firefighter or to begin the application process, visit https://libertyfd.org .
