For one evening, the Glen Lake Fire Department wants community members to associate firefighters with mini golf and live music rather than emergencies.
That’s the idea behind Drinks, Putts and Fire Trucks, the June 17 fundraiser at River Club Glen Arbor that will raise money for the department while giving residents a chance to meet the people behind the uniforms.
“We couldn’t be more excited to showcase the Glen Lake Fire Department’s capabilities and staff to the local community,” Glen Lake Fire Department Chief Bryan Ferguson said. “Our goal is for the community to obtain a closer, more personal connection with the fire department while raising funds for trucks, gear and training. The event, which runs from 4 to 8 p.m., is a collaboration between the Glen Lake Fire Department and River Club. Along with raising money for the department, organizers say the goal is to give residents a chance to meet firefighters and learn more about what they do outside the context of an emergency. “Anytime we can interact with the public in a nonemergency situation, it’s always beneficial, especially for the kids to see us when there isn’t something scary going on for them,” Ferguson said. A variety of firefighter themed activities will be stationed along the River Club course including a CPR dummy and a Beat the Fire Fighter hole where players have a chance to win a prize. The department’s ATV, side-by-side, boat and ambulance will also be on display throughout the grounds. According to Ferguson, the partnership builds on a longstanding relationship between the neighboring organizations. “We as the fire department have had a great relationship with the River Club since before they started building their golf course. The previous buildings on that property were offered to us for training purposes before they were ultimately torn down,” he said. “They just generally want to help the community however they can.” Proceeds from the event will benefit the department’s nonprofit organization, the Glen Lake Fire & Rescue Association, which helps send employees to paramedic school, buy fitness equipment and supplies and has supported other major department purchases over the years. The River Club will donate all revenue from the day, minus operating costs, to the fire department. “It’s ultimately about helping the local people who benefit from the Fire Department’s services,” Sheldon said. “Every dollar the Fire Department gets makes the community more secure.” Both Ferguson and Sheldon hope that Drinks, Putts and Fire Trucks will become an annual tradition. “It’s a great cause and a way for the community to contribute and have fun at the same time,” Sheldon said. “Buy a burrito, cocktail and a round of golf and support the Fire Department at the same time? No brainer!”
