Staff Reports | Community Updates
Scottsdale Firefighter Charities raised more than $100,000 during its annual Behind the Flames fundraiser Sunday, Sept. 27, at Mastro’s City Hall, setting a fundraising record for the event.
Presented by HonorHealth, the 27th annual fundraiser brought together firefighters, community leaders, sponsors and supporters, with proceeds benefiting firefighters and their families as well as programs and organizations serving Scottsdale youth, seniors and families, according to a press release.
“We’ve seen Behind the Flames grow year after year, and raising more than $100,000 this year is something we’re incredibly proud of,” Sasha Weller, Scottsdale Firefighters Association president, said. “Every dollar gives us another opportunity to help a firefighter or family who needs support or put resources behind organizations doing important work throughout Scottsdale. Raising that kind of support shows what can happen when this community comes together for people who spend their lives showing up for others.”
The event also honored Scottsdale Firefighter of the Year Rey Igliane for his service to the Scottsdale Fire Department. Mr. Igliane was recognized for his integrity, dependability and commitment to the job.
Behind the Flames also recognized four C.A.R.E. Award recipients for their work in Scottsdale and across Arizona.
Honorees included longtime Arizona sports journalist and radio personality Dan Bickley, recognized for using his platform to call attention to charitable causes, local heroes and first responders and for holding prominent figures in sports accountable.
Journalist Jeremy Duda, author of “Murder in the Fourth Estate,” also was honored, along with George Weisz, a former Arizona Attorney General’s Office investigator who spent years investigating the murder of Arizona Republic journalist Don Bolles and now serves as chairman of the Scottsdale Community Bank board of directors.
Melissa Schalles, executive director of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Association, was honored for the organization’s use of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show to support charitable causes throughout the region.
KTAR News radio host Jim Sharpe emceed the event, which included awards presentations, remarks from honorees and firefighters, dinner and fundraising for Scottsdale Firefighter Charities.
Funds raised through Behind the Flames support organizations including the EVIT Foundation, Scottsdale Community Partners/Human Services, Scottsdale Food Bank, Jobs for America’s Graduates, City of Scottsdale Youth Development program, Scottsdale Senior Center, Together Pink Network, McDowell Sonoran Conservancy and Vista del Camino Community Center.
The record fundraising total will provide Scottsdale Firefighter Charities with additional resources to assist firefighters and their families and support organizations serving the Scottsdale community.
