From Staff Reports and the 2650 Foundation
The 2650 Foundation has announced the return of its heartfelt initiative, Fifteen Days of Hope, a community-driven campaign dedicated to honoring first responders, uniting neighbors, and uplifting the Apopka community through acts of service.
Related: Six Apopka firefighters awarded scholarships from the 2650 Foundation.
The 2650 Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting first responders, honoring fallen heroes, and strengthening communities through acts of service and remembrance. Inspired by the legacy of Apopka Firefighter Austin Duran, the foundation promotes unity, resilience, and hope through events, scholarships, and community outreach initiatives.
Now in its second year, Fifteen Days of Hope is held in memory of Firefighter Austin Duran, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in July 2022. The campaign runs from June 30th through July 15th, marking three years since the Apopka Fire Department and the community came together in a powerful outpouring of love and support following his passing.
“Thanks to the incredible support we received last year during our first Fifteen Days of Hope, we were able to honor fallen heroes, feed all three shifts at all six Apopka fire stations, and pour back into the community in powerful ways,” the statement said.
The 2024 edition of Fifteen Days of Hope will once again feature a wide array of events, volunteer opportunities, and service projects. The goal is simple: to foster unity, commemorate sacrifice, and pay forward the kind of hope that Austin Duran embodied as a firefighter and public servant.
Ways to Get Involved:
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Attend a Community Event: From service projects to family-friendly gatherings, events are designed to connect people of all ages.
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Donate Supplies: Join PityFitness in their “Pack the Firehouse” effort to collect essential items for local firefighters.
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Support Future Firefighters: Contribute to a scholarship fund aimed at helping the next generation of fire service professionals.
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Start Your Own Initiative: Whether it’s a lemonade stand or a neighborhood fundraiser, every effort counts.
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Spread the Word: Share the message of hope across social media and within your community.
To view the full calendar of events or find more information on how to participate, visit www.the2650foundation.org/events.
“Hope doesn’t happen on its own — it happens because of people like you,” the Foundation said in its announcement. “Thank you for helping us carry our mission forward.”
Fifteen Days of Hope is more than just a tribute — it’s a movement. And in Apopka, it’s a reminder that even in loss, unity and kindness can light the way forward.
