Rebuilding a Community Lifeline
When Mark Hardin became the chief of the Calhoun Volunteer Fire Department in 2021, he faced a dire situation with outdated equipment and a severe lack of manpower—he was the sole firefighter. The department’s resources were stretched thin, with equipment from the 1980s and only one functioning fire truck. Hardin embarked on a mission to revive the department, utilizing social media to enhance community engagement, offering weekly training sessions, and actively recruiting volunteers, which expanded the team to 28 dedicated members.
A Significant Contribution Sparks Transformation
Despite their efforts, the department struggled with financial constraints, barely managing to keep their equipment operational; by March of this year, they were down to their last $169. The turning point came from an unexpected quarter: 91-year-old local businessman Sam Sloan, who committed a life-changing $500,000 donation. Sloan, who had been contemplating this generous act for several years, aimed to significantly boost the department’s capabilities and morale.
Future Plans and Community Impact
With this substantial donation, Hardin has detailed plans to purchase three new fire trucks and upgrade safety equipment for the entire crew, ensuring each firefighter is fully outfitted with the latest gear. The department intends to replace their most problematic vehicle first and improve overall operational efficiency. Furthermore, in a spirit of community solidarity inspired by Sloan’s generosity, Hardin plans to offer any replaced gear to neighboring fire departments in need, fostering a culture of support and resilience within the region.