Ocala, FL (352today.com) – The Professional Fire Fighters of Marion County (PFFMC) has
partnered with local poker room OcalaBets to fundraise for the new Embers of Hope camp that provides burned children with a summer camp experience.
The Ember of Hope camp, which held its inaugural event the first week of this month, paired
child survivors of burns with first responders for traditional camp-like activities. The camp is a
non-profit organization affiliated with the Marion County Firefighters Benevolence Fund
(MCFBF), which serves as the charitable arm of the PFFMC.
The tournament, open to the public, will begin at 11:00 a.m. on September 11th and include
breaks and “add-ons,” where players can purchase additional chips to increase their chances of
winning the tournament. The add-on money will go towards the Embers of Hope camp. This
event falls on a day that holds somber memories and significance for firefighters, but will
hopefully add some positive results and camaraderie to the date.
“I remember getting off shift on 9/11 and hearing the news develop in real time. The following
weeks were a very emotional time at firehouses across the nation, with donations and support
coming from every community. Reliving this experience for a good cause is welcome,” stated
PFFMC 2nd Vice President Joe Romani.
Ryan Lewandowski added, “OcalaBetS is pleased to be teaming up with the Marion County
Firefighters to put on this awesome poker tournament for the Embers of Hope. Helping these
courageous young survivors enjoy a fun-filled summer camp is what it’s all about. We love
giving back to our community, and we are honored to support a cause that makes such a
profound difference in these children’s lives.”
The PFFMC is a labor union organization representing 598 active and retired first responders
who work for, or have retired from, Marion County Fire Rescue. The organization strives to
improve the lives of its members and the citizens of Marion County through sacrifice on and off
duty.
Our socials are @marionfirefighters on Instagram, @FF4Marion on X, and Professional
Firefighters of Marion County on Facebook. Additional facts and acts of service can be found
there.