Volunteer Spotlight: Patrick Widolff

Name: Patrick Widolff
Title: Assistant Chief
Department Name: Orangeville Fire Protection District
Location: Orangeville, IL

Why are you an NVFC member?
I desired access to resources to help me improve my ability to better serve my department.

What is your occupation?
Insurance agent

Why are you a volunteer firefighter, EMT, or rescue provider?
I am involved as a volunteer firefighter and first responder to serve my community and its people when emergencies occur and to help educate them on safety and loss prevention topics.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?
1987

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
Any successful outcome is always memorable. One in particular, we extinguished a serious dwelling fire, one wing was totally destroyed but we saved the main structure. After overhaul was complete and conditions were safe, we escorted the lady of the house in to retrieve some personal items. She entered a spare bedroom, picked up a framed picture, broke into tears, and informed us that we had saved the only picture that she had of her deceased daughter.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
For 30 years we have visited the local grade school during Fire Prevention Week to discuss fire safety, EDITH planning, and stop, drop, and roll. We conduct numerous fund raising activities to buy equipment for the fire district and ease the burden to our taxpayers. We conduct an annual festival to entertain and educate the community.

* Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.