On March 27, 2025, Hale presented a donation of $28,000 to the Marion County Firefighters Benevolence Fund to support the 2025 Embers of Hope Burn Survivor Camp. This camp offers young burn survivors from across Florida a safe space for healing, support, and unforgettable experiences.
For many of the young survivors, the camp is not just a vacation; it is an opportunity to heal and bond with others who share similar experiences. As customer service lead Susan Bartlett emphasizes, “I feel that by supporting Embers of Hope camp, Hale Products allows the children and young adults an opportunity to feel a sense of belonging. That they are not alone in this tough road they are facing. At the same time offering family members time of respite, while the kids learn coping skills and develop friendships with other youth facing the same challenges.”
The Power of the Burn Survivors Camp
The Embers of Hope Burn Survivor Camp is a free 4-day, 3-night camp held at Lake Swan Camp in Melrose, Florida, for children ages 6 through 17 who have sustained a burn injury. The camp’s mission is clear: empower children to embrace their burns while fostering a sense of community among peers. The camp provides an environment where children not only engage in traditional summer camp activities like swimming, canoeing, and arts and crafts, but also attend workshops on self-esteem, body image, and coping strategies, led by experienced counselors and professionals from the burn community.
By offering these unique experiences, the camp helps children develop a healthy self-image and equips them with the emotional tools needed for their journey as survivors. As customer service manager Stephen Santa Fe, who worked closely with Ember of Hope founder Rebekah Johnson and the IDEX Foundation to secure funding for the camp, reflects:
“Embers of Hope demonstrates that our efforts save lives daily. Providing this camp for children and witnessing the positive impact it has on their lives fills me with pride and joy. The support from IDEX and Hale further strengthens my belief in the value of our work and the product we offer.”
Gathering as a Community
On a sunny day in Ocala, Florida, the community gathered to celebrate the partnership. In attendance were Marion County Firefighters, Hale employees, and Rebekah Johnson, founder of Embers of Hope. Johnson, who has seen the firsthand impact of the camp, notes, “Since our first meeting, it was very clear that Palmer and his team have a passion for supporting the fire service and those impacted by burns. The entire workforce at Hale and IDEX has been so supportive and caring, going above and beyond to partner with us to support the kids we serve.”
The Marion County Fire Department notes on their Facebook page, “This incredible donation will fully fund the 2025 camp, allowing us to continue providing a safe, encouraging, and life-changing experience—completely free of charge—for children who have experienced burn injuries.”
A Vital Partnership
Hale’s commitment to safety and innovation in the fire industry aligns seamlessly with their partnership with the Marion County Firefighters and Embers of Hope. Hale site lead Palmer Pendleton is excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings:
“The Hale team, renowned for its expertise in world-class fire and safety equipment, is committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive solutions that address mission-critical problems, save lives, and enhance global safety. Our partnership with Marion County Fire and Embers of Hope underscores Hale’s steadfast dedication to our values of Trust, Team, and Excellence not only in the industry we serve but also in our community.”
As Rebekah Johnson says of Hale’s contribution, “The gift to the camp will have a lifelong impact in the lives of each burn child that attends. Because it is an opportunity to gain a sense of belonging and togetherness that will give them hope that they are not alone as they move forward in their lives.”
Looking forward to the future, Pendleton envisions a lasting impact: “The importance of supporting children through initiatives like Embers of Hope cannot be overstated, as it shapes the future and instills hope in the next generation. As I look forward, I envision a future where Hale’s community engagement is so impactful that everyone in Marion County recognizes Hale as a beacon of care, excellence, and dedication.”
A Symbol of Hope
As the 2025 camp prepares for its transformative experiences, the partnership between Hale and Embers of Hope stands as a powerful example of what can be accomplished when businesses and nonprofits come together for the greater good. This donation is not just a financial contribution—it is an investment in the future of burn survivors, their families, and the broader community. It is a symbol of hope, resilience, and unwavering support.
"We are grateful to the Marion County Fire Department and Embers of Hope for allowing Hale Products to be part of their story," Pendleton concludes, reflecting on the impact of this meaningful partnership.
The Impact of SAM Technology on Firefighters
In today’s fire service, technology is pivotal in bridging generational gaps and ensuring firefighters of all ages can operate safely and effectively. Younger firefighters, often more comfortable with digital tools and technology, are quick to adopt innovations that make their work more efficient. The SAM Smart Nozzle speaks directly to this generation, providing:
- Accurate info and data at their fingertips
- Autonomy and speed
- Advanced training opportunities
This familiarity with technology makes it easier for younger firefighters to trust and utilize tools like the SAM Smart Nozzle, which ultimately enhances their ability to respond swiftly and effectively.
For experienced veterans in the fire service who have honed their skills over years of service, SAM technology offers simplicity and reliability without compromising effectiveness. For this generation, SAM provides:
- Ease of use and straightforward operation
- Durability of design from a trustworthy brand
- Performance when it matters most
“We like everything about it. This technology is something we need—it is the latest state-of-the-art improvement,” said Captain Jim Bingham of the Viejas Fire Department. With 40+ years of firefighting experience, Captain Bingham says SAM technology is one of the most innovative improvements he has ever seen.
By addressing the needs of both young and experienced firefighters, the SAM Smart Nozzle ensures that teams of all ages can work together effectively, improving overall safety and performance on the fireground.
“We like everything about it. This technology is something we need—it is the latest state-of-the-art improvement...”
Innovation Firefighters Can Rely On
Since its founding in 1918, Akron Brass has been synonymous with quality, reliability, and continuous innovation. Starting with durable brass fittings and hose nozzles, the company quickly earned a reputation for producing equipment that could withstand the harshest firefighting conditions. The company’s commitment to innovation has been unwavering, consistently developing reliable water flow equipment that firefighters depend on worldwide.
In the early 20th century, when modern firefighting was still developing, Akron Brass’s products became a cornerstone of fire departments across the United States and beyond—redefining how fire departments approach water delivery and control. From the introduction of adjustable flow nozzles to valves designed for precise pressure control, Akron Brass has always been ahead of the curve.
The SAM Smart Nozzle is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, carrying forward Akron Brass’s legacy by meeting today’s firefighting challenges head-on. As with every product Akron Brass has introduced, the SAM Smart Nozzle is designed to improve efficiency, enhance safety, simplify training, and empower the next generation of firefighters.
By providing nozzle operators with real-time data, independent control, and automated pressure adjustments, the SAM Smart Nozzle redefines what’s possible on the fireground. Firefighters no longer have to wait for water — they can charge their own lines, monitor their water supply, and make critical decisions in the moment.
Additionally, this cutting-edge technology reflects Akron Brass’s dedication to meeting the ever-changing needs of firefighters. By providing a tool that enables quicker, safer, and more efficient firefighting, Akron Brass ensures that firefighters can trust the SAM Smart Nozzle in even the most stressful situations.
If you’re looking for cutting-edge equipment or a fire department seeking to improve operational efficiency, safety, and effectiveness, the SAM Smart Nozzle is an investment that simplifies water flow control while enhancing overall performance.
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