Seattle's Bravest Charity

Seattle's Bravest Charity is a United States nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting firefighters and the Seattle community. Originally established as the Seattle Fire Fighter's Benevolent Association, it operates as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization with the tax identification number 91-1674237.

Mission

The charity focuses on aiding firefighters and their families in need, particularly those affected by injuries sustained in the line of duty. Its Catastrophic Fund provides specific support to firefighters who are unable to return to work due to their injuries[5]. Beyond this, Seattle's Bravest Charity also extends its support to victims of fires and contributes to the broader community welfare.

Activities

Seattle's Bravest Charity is associated with the Seattle Firefighters Pipes & Drums, a band founded in 2004 by Lt. Spencer Nelson. This band, comprised of current or retired firefighters who volunteer their time, performs at various events including funerals, recruit graduations, and fundraising activities. Their performances are a tribute to fallen firefighters, honoring the long-standing tradition of bagpipes at memorials[2].

Additionally, Seattle's Bravest Charity was instrumental in establishing the Walter Kilgore Seattle Firefighters Honor Guard, which was conceived in 2000. This Honor Guard provides last respects at line-of-duty deaths for both Seattle Fire Department members and those from other departments[4].

Funding

The charity relies entirely on donations to carry out its mission. It offers options for donations to be designated for specific funds within the organization[1]. Seattle's Bravest Charity works in conjunction with other organizations to enhance its impact on the community, supporting various initiatives that promote resilience and mental health within the firefighting community[3].

[1] https://seattlesbravestcharity.com/?page_id=447 [2] https://seattlerefined.com/lifestyle/seattle-firefighters-pipes-drums-celebrates-20-years-of-service-honoring-the-fallen-seattles-bravest-charity-firefighters-heroes-bagpipes-sfd-pnw [3] https://www.seattle.gov/documents/Departments/Fire/About/2023_Annual_Report_Press_Quality_FINAL.pdf [4] https://www.seattle.gov/fire/about-us/about-the-department/honor-guard [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/91-1674237