By Megan Garcia, COO of 2650 Foundation
The 2650 Foundation is proud to announce the first annual Fifteen Days of Hope in memory of Firefighter Austin Duran, who was injured on June 30th, 2022, and died 15 days later after succumbing to his injuries.
As we enter the summer, this year marks two years since Austin's death. Between June 30th and July 15th of 2022, the city of Apopka truly surrounded the Duran family and the Apopka Fire Department with so much support in so many ways. From the churches that ensured every station had meals provided to little ones hosting lemonade stands and local businesses hosting fundraisers, the Apopka community truly displayed the small-town charm many of us love so much about Apopka.
In this second year, with the support of the Duran family, The 2650 Foundation looks to recreate that support for our fire department in loving memory of Austin Duran.
Beginning on June 30th, community members, in partnership with members of their board, The 2650 Foundation, will be hosting the third Austin Duran Community Vigil at Austin's memorial sight from 10 am to 11 am. The 2650 Foundation looks to share in a moment of remembrance with the community while also taking time to highlight the impact Austin Duran has had throughout the Apopka Community and across the Fire Industry as a whole. Following this vigil, The 2650 Foundation invites the community to an afternoon of fellowship at Three Odd Guys Brewing.
Following June 30th, the 2650 Foundation will support various events across the community, in addition to several businesses that will support The Fifteen Days of Hope, all in memory of Austin. The community is encouraged to join this campaign in any big or small way.
Some ideas to consider:
- Take your kids to tour a fire station... Bring cookies or a couple of cases of water with you.
- Host a lemonade stand or another fundraiser to donate to 2650.
- Volunteer or participate in one of the many events being hosted through The Fifteen Days.
- Something as simple as posting a photo in a 2650 shirt brings awareness and support to Austin's memory.
To keep up with the many events being hosted throughout The Fifteen Days of Hope, follow The 2650 Foundation on Facebook and Instagram or visit The2650foundation.org.
If you would like to get involved and need our support, please reach out to our COO, Megan Garcia, at the2650foundation@gmail.com.
