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Is there any volunteer firefighter work available?
I live in the Rogers Park area Chicago Illinois. I'm interested in the firefighter volunteer. I have a criminal background. What are my chances and getting into volunteer work?
#criminal #volunteer #firefighter
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4 answers
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Criminal background not always the deal breaker, depending on the offense and how recent. Many of the suburbs have volunteer fire fighters or paid on call if you reside close enough to respond promptly. Keep your head up and your nose clean and don't give up
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Criminal background not always the deal breaker, depending on the offense and how recent. Many of the suburbs have volunteer fire fighters or paid on call if you reside close enough to respond promptly. Keep your head up and your nose clean and don't give up –
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
The answer to that question depends somewhat on your specific offense(s). If you were convicted of a misdemeanor, your chances of getting into firefighting are still high, though there will be obstacles you will need to overcome. If you are a convicted felon, your chances are much lower.
A former fire academy student of mine was convicted of a DUI. All of the local fire departments asked him to wait 5-years before applying. He waited 5-years, during that time he worked his butt off to be in top physical shape, was an active member of the community by participating in fundraisers, demonstrated a strong work ethic by working multiple jobs, and took relevant coursework at the community college to continue his education. When 5-years had passed, he reapplied, was honest about his background, expressed remorse, explained how he changed and proved it with all his actions from the past 5-years since his offense, and he was very successful.
A criminal background is not the end of the world, and I applaud you for wanting to set yourself straight and serve your community. Just remember that all jobs in public safety, career or volunteer, require the utmost integrity. Serving is an honor, and a privilege, and you may need to earn that opportunity. If you're willing to work hard and be patient, I'm confident you can eventually become a firefighter.
A former fire academy student of mine was convicted of a DUI. All of the local fire departments asked him to wait 5-years before applying. He waited 5-years, during that time he worked his butt off to be in top physical shape, was an active member of the community by participating in fundraisers, demonstrated a strong work ethic by working multiple jobs, and took relevant coursework at the community college to continue his education. When 5-years had passed, he reapplied, was honest about his background, expressed remorse, explained how he changed and proved it with all his actions from the past 5-years since his offense, and he was very successful.
A criminal background is not the end of the world, and I applaud you for wanting to set yourself straight and serve your community. Just remember that all jobs in public safety, career or volunteer, require the utmost integrity. Serving is an honor, and a privilege, and you may need to earn that opportunity. If you're willing to work hard and be patient, I'm confident you can eventually become a firefighter.
Thank you so much you have really answered my question in the most clearest way possible. Thank you for being completely honest with me. I appreciate your feed back. I will take your professional advice and take it into consideration. God bless and thank you so much
Pedro
Updated
Mari’s Answer
Hi Pedro, I checked with a very good friend of mine. Check out the Chicago Police and Fire Training Academy. They are taking applications for their program until April 3, 2020. The requirement is excellent grades. Be honest on the application. Everyone makes mistakes and you are young. Good luck, keep your chin up and stay out of trouble.