Miles for MnFIRE Raised $20,000, Awareness for Firefighter Health

On Saturday, Doug Foote was joined by firefighters from around the Twin Cities as they completed the final mile of Miles for MnFIRE together and descended upon the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the State Capitol Grounds. It marked the powerful end of a truly momentous journey for Minnesota firefighter health.

From Marietta to Montevideo to Saint Paul, and all the communities in between, Doug’s 200-mile trek served to unite, educate and rally support around the top three health issues facing firefighters in our state: cardiac, emotional trauma and cancer. In addition to sharing MnFIRE’s mission with folks along the journey, Miles for MnFIRE also received widespread media attention, reaching an audience of over 5 million people through print, radio and television media outlets. We also managed to raise $20,000 to support MnFIRE’s mission of supporting Minnesota firefighters and they people who care about them.

“This walk has been an incredible and inspirational journey on so many levels,” says Doug. “What is abundantly clear is that we have firefighters who are hurting out there from the myriad traumatic experiences they have encountered. Their dedication is nothing short of heroic, but it drives home the point of how important the MnFIRE mission is, especially related to mental health.”

In the wake of this milestone journey, we’d simply like to say thank you. Thank you to the many firefighters who donned their turnout gear and took brave steps together with us along the way; thank you to the long list of fire departments who donated and voiced their support for the cause; thank you to the compassionate corporations who pledged their support for our hometown heroes; and thank you, Doug Foote, for your tireless efforts to support our organization.

Doug gives special thanks to his sons and wife Denise for being there throughout the journey, as well as to Chiefs Johnson, White, and the entire Chanhassen Fire Dept. “Words cannot possibly express my gratitude for all the departments, firefighters, and members of the community who showed up and dedicated their time to support the Miles for MnFIRE walk and MnFIRE’s mission,” he says. “I am indebted to those who ensured my safety along the route. I am so thankful to the MnFIRE team for their support and commitment throughout this journey, but even more so related to all they are doing for my fire department brothers and sisters. They have a mighty mission and are leading purpose-driven lives indeed!”

If you haven’t made a donation and would still like to there’s still a little time left. Check out our pledge page HERE.

Recent News

Signs and support for post-traumatic stress injury/disorder
May 23, 2025
A quick guide for mindful living practices
May 7, 2025
Know the facts on testicular cancer
April 23, 2025
9 Tips to ease daily stress
April 14, 2025
Striving for better sleep on call and at home
March 18, 2025
Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle to reduce cancer risk
March 7, 2025
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

June is Cancer Survivors Month, and we're proud to help Minnesota firefighters protect themselves from the increased cancer risks that come with being a firefighter. From our no-cost cancer training to our Critical Illness Program, you can find the resources to best suit you or your department. mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/

We honor all cancer survivors who have worked or volunteered in the fire service. 🎗️💜
... See MoreSee Less

June is Cancer Survivors Month, and were proud to help Minnesota firefighters protect themselves from the increased cancer risks that come with being a firefighter. From our no-cost cancer training to our Critical Illness Program, you can find the resources to best suit you or your department. https://mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/

We honor all cancer survivors who have worked or volunteered in the fire service. 🎗️💜

If you're in search of a special way to celebrate and remember a firefighter in your life, consider the MnFIRE Honor Wall. After making a donation of $100 or more, fill out the form to create a personal tribute in memory or honor of your loved one, and it will be added to the collection of heartfelt messages. Find more information here: mnfireinitiative.com/ways-to-help/#donate ... See MoreSee Less

If youre in search of a special way to celebrate and remember a firefighter in your life, consider the MnFIRE Honor Wall. After making a donation of $100 or more, fill out the form to create a personal tribute in memory or honor of your loved one, and it will be added to the collection of heartfelt messages. Find more information here: https://mnfireinitiative.com/ways-to-help/#donate

Make a lasting impact by sponsoring MnFORE – a golf tournament with a great purpose. From sponsoring a hole to donating raffle prizes, your sponsorship goes a long way to support the health and well-being of Minnesota firefighters. See opportunities here: mnfireinitiative.com/mnfore/ ... See MoreSee Less

Make a lasting impact by sponsoring MnFORE – a golf tournament with a great purpose. From sponsoring a hole to donating raffle prizes, your sponsorship goes a long way to support the health and well-being of Minnesota firefighters. See opportunities here: https://mnfireinitiative.com/mnfore/

Claps for the firefighters of Chisago City Fire Department, who recently became "MnFIRE Aware" of their occupational health risks through MnFIRE Awareness training! 👏

Our trainings help Minnesota firefighters protect themselves from some of the physical and emotional dangers they face. Take this step for your department today: mnfireinitiative.com/training/
... See MoreSee Less

Claps for the firefighters of Chisago City Fire Department, who recently became MnFIRE Aware of their occupational health risks through MnFIRE Awareness training! 👏

Our trainings help Minnesota firefighters protect themselves from some of the physical and emotional dangers they face. Take this step for your department today: https://mnfireinitiative.com/training/
Load more
Skip to content