First annual Manson Walk for Air a success

MANSON — The Manson Volunteer Firefighters Association hosted its inaugural Walk for Air on Oct. 11, drawing community members together in a powerful display of strength, unity and local pride. The event served as both a physical challenge and a fundraiser for the Association’s Season of Hope program, which provides assistance to families in need during the holidays.

At 10 a.m., ten Manson firefighters suited up in full gear—more than 100 pounds of equipment including face masks and air tanks—and began their 2.8-mile trek from Fire Station #2 on Wapato Lake Road to Station #1 in downtown Manson. A fire engine led the way with lights flashing, while supporters lined the route to cheer them on. Some community members even joined the walk in solidarity.

Participants included Manson Junior Firefighters Austin Pratt, Hanna Lyman and Mac Richmond, who walked alongside Manson firefighters Trent Lyman, Beau Alanis, Aaron Richmond, Doug Penski, Brooks Penski, Jesus Estrada, Cabe Boyd and Jayden Burdick of the Orondo Fire Department.

First to arrive at Station #1 was Cabe Boyd, followed by Mac Richmond in second and Jayden Burdick in third.

The Walk for Air supports the Association’s Season of Hope initiative, which began in 2007 with the goal of helping families during the holiday season. That first year, the program distributed $100 grocery gift certificates to ten families. By 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the program had expanded to provide more than $20,000 in assistance to 65 families.

“The Walk for Air is just one of many heartfelt fundraising events we host throughout the year,” said Doug Penski, President of the Manson Volunteer Firefighters Association. “Right now, every dollar raised fuels our ‘Season of Hope’ initiative, providing direct support to families in need during the holidays.” 

“We’re also looking ahead, exploring new ways to uplift and serve our incredible community,” he said. “If you’d like to be part of that mission, your contribution makes a real difference.”

The Manson Volunteer Firefighters Association also provides up to $500 in immediate aid to families displaced by structure fires, often in collaboration with the Red Cross. Over the years, the Association has contributed to major disaster relief efforts, including the Carlton Complex Fires, the Oso Landslide and the Chelan Complex Fires.

In addition to its emergency response work, the Association supports youth sports, local school programs and Scouts BSA Chelan Valley Troop 34, which it chartered in 2021.

Donations to the Manson Volunteer Firefighters Association can be dropped off at Fire Station #1, 250 Manson Blvd., during regular business hours, or mailed to P.O. Box D, Manson, WA 98831.

The Association is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit governed by a board of community members and firefighters. Contributions are tax-deductible.

Norm Manly contributed to this report.

Quinn Propst: 509-731-3590 or quinn@ward.media.