| The Pleasant Valley Fire District proudly hosted its inaugural Braveheart: Girls in Emergency Services Academy, welcoming nine young women, ages 12–16, for two days of hands-on learning, leadership development, and career exploration in emergency services.
A dream and a vision of Commissioner Melissa Lawlor, it was made possible through grant funding from Dutchess County Youth Services, the academy was created to introduce young women to the many rewarding careers within fire, emergency medical services, law enforcement, public safety, and conservation while building confidence, teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills.
Throughout the academy, participants trained alongside firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement officers, conservation officers, and other public safety professionals. They learned CPR, first aid, Stop the Bleed and tourniquet application, health and wellness, nutrition, teamwork, and participated in yoga and mindfulness activities designed to reinforce the importance of caring for both physical and mental well-being.
The girls also had the unique opportunity to meet virtually with former FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, who shared her leadership journey and encouraged participants to pursue careers of service with courage, determination, and confidence.
Additional experiences included demonstrations and career discussions with the New York State Police K9 Unit and Recruitment Team, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Police, and the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office, allowing participants to explore the many different paths available within public service.
The Pleasant Valley Fire District extends its sincere gratitude to the many organizations and individuals whose generosity of time and expertise made this academy possible:
- Dutchess County Youth Services for grant funding and support.
- New York State Police K9 Unit – K9s Fortino and Hover and their handlers.
- New York State Police Recruitment Unit.
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Police Officers Aubrey and Nikki.
- Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office.
- Millbrook Yoga, with instructor Sam.
- Pleasant Valley Fire District firefighters and EMTs: Tom Murphy, Priya Jain, Sandi Shipley, Abigail Elliott, Rebecca Callahan, Jacob Gates, Spencer Simoni, and firefighter Andrew Fanuele, whose behind-the-scenes assistance kept everything running smoothly.
The success of the inaugural academy reflects the incredible collaboration among our community partners and the enthusiasm of the nine remarkable young women who embraced every challenge placed before them. Their curiosity, determination, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones made the weekend an overwhelming success.
The Pleasant Valley Fire District also recognizes the many organizations and advocates across the country advancing girls’ fire camps and supporting women in the fire service. Their dedication continues to inspire opportunities like Braveheart and helps build a stronger, more inclusive future for emergency services.
Following the enthusiastic response from participants and their families, the Pleasant Valley Fire District looks forward to expanding the Braveheart Girls in Emergency Services Academy in 2027, creating even more opportunities for young women to discover their potential and explore careers dedicated to serving others |
