Help Support a Formerly Incarcerated Fire Fighting Hero
Co-Founder of Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program lost his home in Altadena, CA
Last week, we brought you the story of California's incarcerated and formerly incarcerated fire fighters who are at the front lines of protecting Southern Californians from the worst wildfires to date in the state's history.
We've learned that one of those heroes lost his home in Altadena in the Eaton Fire.
Brandon Smith is the co-founder and executive director of the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP). Smith helped found FFRP to help formerly incarcerated individuals who worked in fire camps overcome the barriers that prevent them from entering the professional field of fire fighting. In 2008, Smith was incarcerated in the CA prison system, which led him to the Conservation Camp (“Fire Camp”). From this experience, he was drawn to professional fire fighting after serving in a fire camp, feeling a sense of purpose and recognizing the opportunity to give back to the community.
Smith and fellow co-founder and Royal Ramey understood that lack of employment opportunities are one of the leading causes for recidivism. They created FFRP to ease the process of re-entry for others who shared their lived experiences. FFRP maintains a 10% rate of recidivism across the 200+ placed in employment, compared to the California state average of 41.9% and National average of 82%.
Through FFRP’s work led by Smith, the organization has helped more than 160 people attain gainful, family-winning employment. In recognition of his work and commitment, Brandon has been awarded numerous honors, including the 2021-2022 Echoing Green Fellowship, and was named one of Vice’s 2021 “Human’s of the Year.
A GoFundMe is active to help support Smith's family as they rebuild and recover after losing their home to the Eaton Fire. If you can, please visit and donate to a family that has done so much to help support incarcerated people and families in their communities, especially those serving in front-line firefighting roles to keep everyone safe.
GoFundMe Link --->> Support Firefighting Hero Brandon Smith's Recovery
