Denis Leary Hosts FDNY Training Event to Raise Funds for Firefighters Foundation

Actor-comedian Denis Leary has organized a fundraising event called 'Firefighter for a Day' in partnership with the Fire Department of New York and the FDNY Foundation. The event allows civilians to participate in FDNY training exercises at the academy on Randall's Island in New York City.

It is held annually in honor of International Firefighters Day on May 4. The Leary Firefighters Foundation, established by Leary in 2000 after a fire in Worcester, Massachusetts, that killed six firefighters, provides grants for equipment and training to fire departments.

The foundation aims to ensure firefighters have the resources needed to perform their duties safely. Leary stated that the event has grown each year since its start in 2016.

Participants in the event train alongside firefighters, entering simulated burning buildings, using hoses to extinguish fires, searching for survivors, and rappelling down structures. Leary noted that attendees are not required to complete any activity they prefer to avoid, but many engage more fully after observing the process.

The event attracts actors, athletes, and corporate groups. One participant, initially planning to observe, ended up rappelling down a building in full gear after joining a team. Leary described the experience as helping individuals overcome fears through teamwork.

The foundation's board member reported that the event enables additional grants each year.

The annual event has increased the foundation's grant-giving capacity from $200,000 in its early years to $850,000 currently, with a goal of reaching $1 million in 2026. Grants support fire departments, particularly volunteer ones, in purchasing equipment and training.

A fire chief from Alabama stated that a forcible entry trainer received from the foundation is used daily and improves emergency response. He noted that many U.S. fire departments have benefited from the foundation's donations over 26 years. Leary expressed commitment to the cause, inspired by a friend's philanthropic work in healthcare.