Ignite the Spirit has donated over 3.4million dollars to ease the hardship of Chicago Fire Department families. Ignite the Spirit began in 2003 when a meeting of the minds came together to create an organization that would help others in need; our brothers and sisters on the job that have fallen victim to life’s unjust hardships. Those of you that are familiar with Ignite the Spirit and its mission have already known the numerous times we’ve been there when needed. There are several members in the department that have received assistance from us; many heartbreaking stories we cannot tell. Not only do we respect each other’s privacy, we also respect each other’s pride. Perhaps our pride as men and women on the job is what keeps Ignite the Spirit in the shadows for many of you. If you’ve known a family that needed us and didn’t know where to turn, you’ve seen the effects of Ignite the Spirit and how proud it makes someone to be a member of the Chicago Fire Department. The support we have given has been significant; the overwhelming amount of gratitude given back is priceless. The feelings are similar to witnessing the birth of a child – Awestruck and speechless. Have you ever walked into a stranger’s house, handed them a check, said a few kind words, a hug ensuring things will get better and just leave? Ignite the Spirit continues on without fanfare every day and lives true by the slogan, “We’re HERE When You Need Us”.
