“From Saturday 19 October we will be knocking on the doors of Orange residents to hand out our calendars. Beware of the smart guys who deceive and pretend to be firefighters; we will be in uniform and the donation is free ” At the Orange Fire Brigade, the chairman informs about the upcoming tour of the calendars and also calls for distrust.
Because it still happens that firefighters are victims of identity theft at this time of year, unscrupulous individuals trying to reap the rewards of their work and the donations they use for ‘Friendly’s social actions. Adjutant Sèbe adds: “The firefighters participating in the tour can always present their identity document or their association card.“
This year, Amicale ordered 7,000 from the advertising agency, AFT Edition Pompier (based in Montélimar), responsible for approaching advertisers who wish to appear in this special almanac. “These are companies in the sector, loyal partners and some new ones.“, specifies Patrick Sèbe, president of the Orange Firefighters Association for about three years.
Connecting the new generation with the old
The calendar tradition is sacred. But above all very useful. “This allows us to raise funds to support the association and improve the daily life of firefighters. We also donate to the Oeuvre des Pupils (ODP) of orphan firefighters, we organize all solidarity operations such as Sainte-Barbe, Christmas for children… This allows us to bring to life the social character of the barracks.“
For firefighters in need as a priority, but not only. During the year, the association participates in various events: Telethon, races such as the Barule of Team Orange Educational Manager (Tome)… It also ensures the connection between the new generation and the old by arranging meals with the elderly.
Only good intentions and never to pressure Orange residents to buy their calendar, however useful it may be. Lawyer officer Patrick Sèbe repeats it: “People are completely free to give what they want, according to their desire and their means. Last year people approached people saying the calendar was priced at €20. This year it is completely wrong again, there is no fixed price, the firefighters just come to offer it.” And make contact, at the door, with the population, in a context other than their relief mission.
