History
The Omaha Firefighters Historical Society (OFHS) was established in 2008 by a group of dedicated Omaha firefighters who shared a passion for learning about and preserving the history of the Omaha Fire Department. In 2016, the Society became an officially chartered and recognized organization within the State of Nebraska by obtaining 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Since that time, the Society’s membership has continued to grow.
In addition to historical preservation, the Society’s mission has expanded to include encouraging and supporting young adults who aspire to careers in firefighting and emergency medical services. The OFHS Sponsorship Program was established to further this mission and is made possible through the generous assistance of PenFed Credit Union, as well as memorial donations honoring the individuals listed in the Memorial Roll Call. These names shall be permanently preserved through this sponsorship fund.
Criteria for Eligibility
A maximum of two (2) recipients will be selected each year.
Applicants must be pursuing a major in Fire Science or an Emergency Medical Training program.
Eligible applicants include:
High school seniors, or
Students currently enrolled in an accredited two-year or four-year college or university, or
Students enrolled in an accredited medical or paramedic training program.
Application Procedure
Applications must be submitted in the form of a formal letter, including appropriate attachments. The letter must state the applicant’s intended course of study and the accredited college, vocational, or trade school the applicant plans to attend.
Required attachments include:
An official or unofficial transcript of the applicant’s grades.
A brief letter of recommendation from a counselor, principal, superintendent, or work supervisor (as applicable), describing their relationship with the applicant and any relevant information that may assist the selection committee.
Applicants must also submit an essay addressing the following questions:
Why should you be considered for the Omaha Firefighters Historical Society Sponsorship? Include examples of your personal strengths, characteristics, and future career aspirations.
Describe how you have helped others, including a detailed personal story.
Describe your career goals and explain why you have chosen to pursue a career in fire science or the medical field.
Applications must be submitted no later than March 15 or September 15 of the year prior to the beginning of the academic year for which the application is being made.
Completed application packets must be postmarked by the applicable deadline and submitted online at omahafirehistory.com.
Because the sponsorship is limited to two recipients per year, if no sponsorship is awarded following the March 15 deadline, two sponsorships may be awarded during the September 15 application cycle of the same year.
Selection and Award Process
The selection committee shall consist of:
The Vice President of the Society (Committee Chair) and the Treasurer (Co-Chair).
Three members of the Society appointed by the Vice President.
At the discretion of the Committee Chair, a business or family representative of an Honor Roll funder.
Selections will be based solely on the materials submitted and compliance with eligibility requirements. Committee members are prohibited from making selections based on race, color, or national origin.
Upon selection, the Committee Chair will provide written notification to the recipient(s) and written notice to all applicants not selected.
The Treasurer shall issue a check to the recipient(s), or—at the student’s request—directly to the educational institution, in an amount recommended by the selection committee. The award amount shall not deplete the sponsorship fund.
The Society shall formally recognize the recipient(s) at a time and location determined by the President of the Society. The recognition ceremony may also be open to Society members, as well as the recipient’s family and friends.