After the Swan River Elks Lodge #384 sold its building, they were looking to give back to the community.
What came next is the highest level of generosity and the definition of giving back. They donated $60,000 to the Swan Valley Fire Department. The Fire Department used those funds to purchase a Can-Am Defender side-by-side and trailer.
It marks the largest financial donation our department has ever received, and its impact will be put to great use and will be felt throughout the region for years to come.
Joel Fedorchuk is the captain of the department.
"Oh, it's awesome. We are extremely blessed to receive that donation," said Fedorchuk. "It'll help us a lot with rescues, grass fires, and more."
The side-by-side seats three firefighters in the main cab and is also equipped with an 85-gallon water tank with a hose reel and pump that is capable of putting out grass fires in hard-to-access areas. The rear of the side-by-side is also designed to carry one patient in a sked (rescue stretcher) if a rescue, with an injury, were required. There is also a compartment that stores medical gear such as a medical pack, C-collars, and straps.
Fedorchuk says the addition of the side-by-side is critical.
"Especially for ATV rescues and grass fires," he added. "Before we got it, for ATV rescues, we had to rely on personal-use ATVs. For grass fires, it's going to save a lot of man-hours and bodies."
The donation is another case of the Elks' unwavering committment to supporting the Swan Valley and the organizations it serves.
Fedorchuk has now been with the department for 14 years. He was promoted to captain four years ago, which was an honour for him. It's a testament to his hard work and dedication to serving and protecting the Swan Valley.
"It was good, it was awesome," Fedorchuk added. "It's added some responsibility, which I love. It's fun."
Fedorchuk says he loves helping the community. He enjoys doing it. While some moments are tough and stressful, he said, at the end of the day, it's always worth it.
The Department currently has 26 members, just shy of the 30 maximum.
"We have a great crew there. Great crew of guys and gals," ended Fedorchuk. "They're a lot of fun to be around. It's a family atmosphere. We're there for one another."
The Department is currently recruiting new members. If you're interested, you can call the Fire Chief at 734-4403. You can also email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
