Applications Open March 1 for Eugene-Springfield Fire’s 15th Young Women's Fire Camp

Eugene Springfield Fire will begin accepting online applications March 1 for its 15th annual Young Women’s Fire Camp, a free weeklong day program scheduled June 22–26 that will select 16 female-identifying youth ages 16–19. Applications are open through May 1, and applicants will be notified of selection no later than May 11.

The camp’s curriculum centers on hands-on firefighting and emergency medical services training and covers related fields, with participants issued firefighting gear for the week. Program copy on the Eugene Springfield Fire site says, “This unique camp instills self-confidence, teamwork, and leadership by utilizing fire service activities as a catalyst for this growth.” Photo captions on the department’s gallery show participants repelling off a roof prop and taking part in water rescue day drills, indicating training in rope systems, heights and water-rescue skills.

Eugene Springfield Fire describes the week as “physically challenging but exceptionally rewarding for participants.” The department emphasizes the program is a day camp, not overnight, and that all selected participants attend without charge. The Young Women’s Fire Camp received the 2021 Community Equity & Inclusion Award from the International City/County Management Association, a recognition cited by the department.

Prospective applicants must submit an online application between March 1 and May 1 and fully complete application and supplemental paperwork. The department’s administrative copy includes an explicit reminder: “We are only able to accept 16 participants annually, so it is important that you fully complete the application and supplemental paperwork.” Selections will be announced by May 11 so families and applicants can plan for the June 22–26 schedule.

For questions about the application or supplemental materials, contact Dana Giles, fire training program coordinator, at 541-682-7155 or FireCamp@ci.eugene.or.us. Eugene Springfield Fire Administration is located at 1705 W Second Ave., Eugene; the department’s main phone is 541-682-7100 and fax is 541-682-7116. The department’s public materials and social posts indicate the application is submitted online; applicants seeking the direct form should use the contact information above to confirm the link and paperwork requirements.

The department closes its camp announcement on an encouraging note: “We look forward to seeing you!” Selected participants will attend June 22–26, receive issued gear, and take part in practical drills that Eugene Springfield Fire frames as building leadership, teamwork and self-confidence.