First Responders Family Farm Day

“This was the most notable and incredible event I have ever attended for first responders,” said Roswell Fire Chief Troche.

Roswell Rotary’s First Responders Family Farm Day was created in response to a critical community need following the in-line-of-duty shooting of Roswell Police Officer LaBonte. Police Chief Conroy and Fire Chief Troche shared that morale among first responders and their families had been deeply affected, with some leaving their positions and creating a void in public safety. The chiefs emphasized the need for opportunities where first responder families could reconnect and find support among others who understand the unique challenges of public safety service.

The event brought together 200+ first responders, spouses, children, and Rotarians for a day centered on appreciation, fellowship, and family connection. The impact was immediate and meaningful. Families reconnected, morale improved, and loved ones found support among others facing similar fears and challenges – per our Police and Fire Chiefs’ own words! The community’s appreciation was clearly felt. Most telling of all, first responders asked Roswell Rotary to set the date for the 2026 Family Farm Day, ensuring the project’s sustainability.

Our budget was fully transparent, and every dollar raised directly supported first responder families. The club raised $2,324 through Happy Dollars, while members donated the venue, food preparation, serving materials, ATVs, fuel, gold-panning supplies, and other resources. Additional funds were raised through raffles and the sale of Rotary-branded kitchenware. A $3,500 Rotary District Grant funded birdhouse kits for the children of first responders , a n activity that became a favorite for both the children and the heroes themselves. Children built and painted 100+ birdhouses, each proudly displaying a plaque of the Rotary emblem on each bird house as a symbol of community gratitude.  Through careful stewardship of club funds, grant dollars, and in-kind donations, every resource was maximized to create a meaningful and memorable experience.

Planning began with consultation from public safety leadership, followed by venue coordination, volunteer organization, and event execution. Committee members met weekly, all district grant requirements were submitted on time, and the project was completed within the timeline established by District leadership and District Governor Ivory.

Rotary engagement was exceptional. 75+ Rotarians contributed more than 332 volunteer hours, cooking, organizing activities, and serving families. Rotarians prepared the entire meal and organized activities including games, gold panning, pumpkin painting, a jumpy house, and family football viewing. It was one of the club’s largest service projects of the year and involved months of preparation and the participation of most club members.

The event also elevated Rotary’s public image through LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and posts from the police and fire departments. Photos and videos captured the authentic experience of the day and generated strong community engagement. The project was also featured in Roswell City Lifestyle Magazine and the Rotary District Newsletter.

In the end, First Responders Family Farm Day clearly demonstrated Rotary’s ability to identify a community need, mobilize volunteers, steward funds responsibly, elevate public image and create a lasting impact. By honoring our service heroes in a way the Fire Chief described as “the greatest thing he has seen in all his years of service,” Roswell Rotary showed our community what Service Above Self truly looks like.