Memorial drive launched to benefit AFD
When Gary and Emily Hughes lost their son Kolby in October, they began looking for a way to honor his memory in a meaningful way. The local couple decided that effort should focus on supporting the Albany Volunteer Fire Department, where Gary Hughes now serves as a volunteer.
The result is the Kolby Hughes Memorial benefit drive, a fundraiser created to help provide equipment and materials for a new training and physical fitness room at the Albany fire station.
“We wanted to do something good in Kolby’s memory,” the Hughes family said. “Our firefighters give their time and energy every day to serve this community, and this felt like a way to honor him while giving back.”
The Albany Volunteer Fire Department is made up of men and women who respond to emergency calls around the clock, in all types of weather. In addition to emergency response, volunteers also handle administrative duties, training, and equipment maintenance.
Although the department’s services are provided free of charge, the Hughes family hopes community donations will help create a dedicated space for firefighters to stay physically prepared for the demands of the job.
The benefit drive began with a $5,000 deposit from the Hughes family into a new account at First Financial Bank in Albany.
The family’s goal is to raise $20,000 to help cover the cost of materials and equipment. Any labor needed for the project will be donated by volunteers.
“These men and women are your neighbors,” the family said. “They respond to calls for help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and they still make time for training and administrative work. This is a way for the community to support them.”
Donations may be made at First Financial Bank under the “Gary Hughes Benefit” account for Albany Fire, or through Venmo at @Emily-Hughes-287. Checks may also be written directly to the Albany City Fire Department, or given to Fire Chief Joel Viertel.
“We appreciate every contribution, no matter how large or small,” the Hughes family said. “This is a worthy cause, and we ask everyone to share this information wherever they may live.”
