Throughout 2023, the Pierce team and their families have made an incredible impact within communities through many inspiring initiatives. Pierce believes in not only building state-of-the-art fire apparatus but also actively participating in projects which honor the sacrifices of local heroes, and support the firefighting and local community. Let's take a closer look at a few of these endeavors.

A Festive Winter Celebration

Pierce Manufacturing was proud to sponsor a festive winter celebration in Neenah, Wisconsin. The family-friendly gathering was an evening of merriment and community connection. Attendees could ice skate, sample holiday treats, receive free goodie bags and s'mores kits, and even get a photo with Santa.

In the spirit of giving, Pierce collected food donations for the St. Joseph Food Program.

Lundgaard Park: Honoring a Local Hero

In a significant commitment to the Appleton area, Pierce Manufacturing has made a pledge to the City of Appleton in support of Lundgaard Park on the north side of the city. As the lead pavilion donor, Pierce’s contribution will play a pivotal role in the construction of the park's pavilion, a focal point dedicated to the memory of Appleton firefighter Mitch Lundgaard, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in 2019.

This contribution represents a strong commitment to the regional community and a sincere remembrance of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The funds will support the ongoing efforts to improve and expand the facilities at Lundgaard Park, contributing to the realization of a vision over two decades in the making.

Bob Schulz emphasized the company's deep connection to the firefighting community by stating, "Our Pierce team is continually moved by the sacrifices made by firefighters in the line of duty. It's about building a community that remembers, honors and stands with our first responders."

11th Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lambeau Field

In another powerful initiative, Pierce, in collaboration with the Green Bay Metro Fire Department, hosted the 11th annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lambeau Field. This poignant event, which took place on September 9, 2023, welcomed participants from the fire service, their families, friends, and community members to pay tribute to the 343 firefighters who perished on September 11, 2001.

The memorial stair climb has grown into one of the largest events of its kind in the nation, with last year's record attendance exceeding 2,800 participants who collectively raised over $180,000 for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF).

Over 2,500 participants climbed the iconic Lambeau Field steps, equivalent to 110 stories—the height of the collapsed World Trade Center towers. Each climber carried an honor badge displaying the name and picture of a fallen firefighter, symbolizing the ascent faced on that tragic day. The stair climb, a non-competitive event, allowed participants to climb to any level they chose, emphasizing the collective effort to honor and remember the fallen heroes.

This event would not be possible each year without the help and support of hundreds of Pierce team members, their families, and community volunteers.

Pierce Team Members Make Impact with Annual Give Back Campaign

Pierce recently completed an internal giving campaign with team members making elective donations to the United Way Fox Cities, St. Jude Children's Hospital, NFFF and a new option this year to donate to an important cause in the community titled the “Community Give Back.” The Community Give Back option may rotate over the years reflecting causes which are important to the community.

These initiatives exemplify Pierce's commitment to community service and honoring those who selflessly serve our communities. Pierce is immensely proud of the positive impact team members continue to make beyond the walls of Pierce facilities. 

How does your fire department support your local community? We'd love to hear in the comments below!