ILLINOIS VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT

At the Thursday, January 14 Board meeting, Andrea Gomez Steelman and Chris Arnold were sworn in as IVFD Volunteers by Deputy Chief Jeff Gavlik. Both will serve out of Station 3 (O'Brien). Each will be working in support functions. Andrea will focus on medical calls and Chris will use his truck driving skills to drive the water tender.

As a home-health worker, Andrea had long felt a calling to help people with medical needs. Then she was in a vehicle rollover accident near Rough and Ready Creek. She recovered but was left wondering what would have become of her if Illinois Valley Fire District volunteers hadn't come to her rescue. She decided to take the next step and volunteer.

Chris Arnold retired in June and decided it was time to give back to the community. For Chris, the Illinois Valley Fire District was a natural place to serve--it was in his blood. His late father, Dick Arnold, was an IVFD volunteer firefighter. His late mother, Elizabeth (Betty) Arnold served on the IVFD Board of Directors. His Daughter, Sarah Arnold served as an IVFD volunteer firefighter before moving out of the area. And his sister, Alison Arnold currently works part time in the Administrative office.

Welcome Andrea and Chris. Thank you for your service!