The Calgary Firefighters Burn Treatment Society (CFBTS) is committed to enhancing the quality of life for burn survivors and those affected by serious skin injuries. Their mission is to ensure individuals receive the best possible care while fostering a strong sense of community support. We spoke with Jason Matthews, Secretary of CFBTS, to learn more about their important work.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
The Calgary Firefighters Burn Treatment Society is a charity made up of Calgary Firefighters who donate their own time to support the burn Community. The CFBTS supports initiatives that improve outcomes and quality of life for burn survivors and individuals affected by other severe skin injuries. Our goal is to foster advancements in burn treatment, research, awareness, care and education.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Burn injuries are some of the most devastating injuries that can happen to a person. Severe skin injuries affect people from all walks of life. Both adults and children can be injured and the recovery process can be tremendously painful and difficult. The CFBTS ensures that patients get the best possible care for their injuries and support for their journey going forward right here in Calgary.
When did you start/join it?
I began helping out with the CFBTS in 2003 when I was a rookie firefighter.
What made you want to get involved?
I knew there was more to being a firefighter than what we do every day on our job. I wanted to give back and the CFBTS had a long history (est. 1978) of helping in our community. It was a great way to get involved, meet new people and make an additional difference. After touring the Calgary Firefighters Burn Treatment Centre at the Foothills Medical Centre, following a cheque presentation to the hospital in 2004 I was hooked!
What was the situation like when you started?
There have always been burn injuries and the need for top-quality care here in Calgary. Calgary’s population was smaller and our efforts focused just on the burn unit.
How has it changed since?
Now, the population has exploded in Calgary and southern Alberta and there is an even greater need for burn care. The CFBTS now supports the burn unit at FMC, a research project with the University of Calgary, the Alberta Firefighters Burn Camp, the Alberta Children’s Hospital and ongoing support for the burn survivor community here in Calgary.
What more needs to be done?
There is greater demand for all the services that the CFBTS Supports and it is hard to keep up. We want to ensure that all patients receive the best care possible and that can only be done with the support of the community.
How can our readers help?
Come out to our events and support the CFBTS. You can purchase our merchandise and donate directly to the charity.
Do you have any events coming up?
The CFBTS is hosting 2 big events this year. The first is our 2nd Annual Truck Pull on Stephen Avenue on June 13. Groups can put together a team and, in a fun-filled day, raise money by pulling a fire truck through the streets of downtown Calgary.
Our second big event this year is our 2nd Annual Ignite the Night YYC at the Tell Convention Centre. It is an exciting evening where we share the “firefighter experience” with Calgarians. Live music, a firefighter relay and more. The event takes place on October 24th.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I support lots of charities in the community. I am a long-time supporter of the Centre for Sexuality. They do lots of great work, including their WiseGuyz program!
