08/25/2026
30 Years of Legacy, Compassion & Service
Thirty years ago, the Peoria Fire-Medical Department lost one of its own to cancer—Johnny Valentine.
In the days that followed, the fire family came together to support Johnny’s family during an incredibly difficult time. As the years passed, Johnny’s family found their footing again and made a selfless request: use the remaining funds to help children in need.
That simple act of compassion became the beginning of something much bigger.
In August 1996, the seeds of what would become Peoria Firefighters Charities were planted. In 2000, the organization was officially established.
Today, 30 years later, we have come a long way. Thousands of lives have been touched, countless families and children have received help, and the generosity of the Peoria Fire-Medical family and our community continues to make a difference.
But through all of that growth, one thing has never changed—the legacy of Johnny Valentine and what he represented.
Strength. Honor. Compassion.
We are honored to celebrate 30 years of Peoria Firefighters Charities, knowing that its foundation was built from the love, compassion, and generosity of a fire family coming together for one of their own.
Johnny’s legacy lives on—not simply in our memories, but in every child helped, every family supported, and every life made a little better.
30 years. One legacy. Thousands of lives touched.
Thank you, Johnny, for inspiring a legacy of service that continues to live on.
❤️🔥 In honor of Johnny Valentine.
1996–2026 | 30 Years of Peoria Firefighters Charities
