Bemidji Launches Inclusive Fire Brigade, Monthly Training Sessions Begin March 25

A youth leader's lifelong dream of becoming a firefighter has grown into something bigger than one person. The Bemidji Fire Department and nonprofit Lead for Inclusion have launched the Inclusive Fire Brigade, a new community program now accepting registrations, with monthly two-hour training sessions set to begin Wednesday, March 25, at Bemidji Fire Station 2.

"The program grew out of a connection between Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood and a youth leader from Lead for Inclusion who has long dreamed of becoming a firefighter," a release said. "Together, they worked with Lead for Inclusion's Youth Leadership Board to create a program that opens the door for more young people to explore careers in emergency services."

The program is designed to introduce youth and young adults to the fire service while building leadership and job skills. Sessions are explicitly open to participants with and without disabilities, welcoming anyone who wants to "serve, learn and belong."

Each monthly session runs from 4 to 6 p.m. at Fire Station 2 and will cover fire station tours, teamwork and communication skills, First Aid and CPR, workplace skills, and exploration of both volunteer and career pathways in the fire service. The curriculum reflects the kind of hands-on, practical exposure that can translate directly into employment or volunteer service in emergency services.

Those interested in registering can reach Lead for Inclusion by email at info@leadforinclusion.org or by phone at (218) 209-2345.