Believe NNY fundraiser is May 3 in Tupper Lake
A Believe NNY fundraiser will be held on Saturday, May 3, 4:30 to 8 p.m., at Raquette River Brewing in Tupper Lake. There will be live music by local rock/country band, the Common Revolution. All North Country residents are invited to attend the fundraiser in support of Believe NNY.
Did you know? Believe NNY is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting volunteer firefighters, EMTs, auxiliary members, and affiliated members in Northern New York who are facing life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer. The organization primarily serves Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties, offering financial assistance to help emergency service personnel during their time of need.
The brotherhood behind Believe NNY is rooted in the deep camaraderie and solidarity among first responders. Firefighters, EMTs, and auxiliary members share a unique bond forged through their shared experiences of service, sacrifice, and facing danger together. This sense of unity is what drives Believe NNY’s mission—to support emergency personnel battling life-threatening illnesses, particularly cancer.
Founder Dale Barker experienced this brotherhood firsthand when his fellow firefighters rallied around him during his own battle with kidney cancer. Their unwavering support inspired him to create Believe NNY, ensuring that others in similar situations receive the same level of care and assistance. The organization embodies the spirit of mutual aid, where first responders look out for one another, not just on the job but in their personal struggles as well. Believe NNY fosters this brotherhood through fundraising events, educational initiatives, and direct financial assistance. The strong sense of community among first responders ensures that no one faces their challenges alone.
Through its efforts, Believe NNY ensures that those who dedicate their lives to protecting others receive the care and resources they need during difficult times. To date, Believe NNY has provided financial assistance to 105 first responders since its inception in 2016.
Believe NNY’s officers now include the following: President/Founder Dale Barker, Star Lake FD, Vice President Amy Rolley, Secretary Dennis Eickhoff, Colton FD, Treasurer Steven Heeren, Felts Mills FD, and County Directors: St. Lawrence (Vinny Ferry, Gouverneur Fire Dept.), Lewis (Jim McLane, Beaver Falls Fire Dept.), Jefferson (Larry Hall Jr., West Carthage Fire Dept.), Franklin (Nick Rolley, Tupper Lake Fire Dept.), and Hamilton (Tony Clark, Long Lake Fire Dept.). For more information about Believe NNY, visit www.believenny.org.