August 9, 2007 - Zion Professional Firefighters Local 1999 began its annual fundraising efforts on Friday, June 29 with a Fill the Boot for Muscular Dystrophy. Off duty personnel from the department collected donations from travelers at the corner of 27th Street and Sheridan Road in Zion. The result of the charitable contributions amounted to more than $3,500 dollars over a 3 hour span.

“The generosity of the citizens of Zion as well as those passing through was impressive” stated Firefighter/Paramedic Jason Messick who coordinated the event. Messick went on to say “The support shown by our administration, personnel, area businesses, and our citizens helped make this event a huge success. We would also like to express our thanks to the City of Zion and the Zion Fire and Rescue Department for supporting Local 1999 in our fundraising efforts.” This was the kick-off event for MDA fundraising for Local 1999. “We have other events in the planning stages that we anticipate will be just as successful as this one!”

All proceeds of this and future events will be sent to the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Lake County office to be disbursed to families and children within the county affected by one of the 43 neuromuscular diseases in the MDA program. Zion alone has approximately 20 families affected by muscular dystrophy.

IAFF Local 1999 President Eric Troy stated “This was a great opportunity to give back to the community. It’s nice to know that the money we raised today is directly helping families within our county and more importantly in our city.”

The “Fill the Boot” Campaign is a national fundraising effort conducted by firefighters in cities across the country to raise money and awareness for Muscular Dystrophy. The International Association of Firefighters is the top contributor to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in the country.

If you would like to make a donation to the Muscular Dystrophy Association please stop by and Fill the Boot at Zion Fire and Rescue Department Station 1, 2828 Sheridan Road in Zion.