Forest Park Fire Department Receives 2025 Visionary City Award

FOREST PARK, Ga. — Jan. 31, 2025 — During a special community ceremony, the City of Forest Park Fire and Emergency Services Department was recently recognized as the recipient of the 2025 Visionary City Award, an honor granted by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) in collaboration with Georgia Trend Magazine.

Presented at GMA’s Cities United Summit on Jan. 26, this award celebrates Forest Park's Girls' Future Firefighter Camp, a pioneering initiative addressing the nationwide shortage of female firefighters by inspiring young women to consider careers in the fire services. Selected in the Medium Cities Category, the annual all-girls firefighter camp – held annually in October – has opened new doors for civic engagement and career exploration, while fostering greater inclusivity in public safety.

Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of GMA, stated, "Forest Park’s Girls' Future Firefighter Camp not only addresses the need for greater diversity in public safety but also empowers young women to envision themselves in leadership roles. It’s a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering opportunity and engagement within the community."

Launched in 2023, the free camp is open to Clayton County youth ages 12-17 who want to learn the ins and outs of what it takes to become a certified firefighter and paramedic. Topics covered during the camp will include the history of fire service, fire prevention, CPR, physical fitness, first aid and teamwork.

"The presence and leadership of women in the fire service play a vital role in the success of our emergency response efforts here at home, as well as in communities across the nation. Their unwavering dedication, resilience and expertise continue to embody the highest standards of service and sacrifice," said Forest Park Fire and Emergency Services Chief Latosha Clemons. "As we work together to build a more inclusive field of fire service professionals, I am honored to help pave the way for the next generation of women leaders. I'd also like to thank the Forest Park governing body, our city manager and my entire team for their unyielding support with helping to make this initiative such an incredible success."

For more information about the Forest Park Fire and Emergency Services Department, visit www.forestparkga.gov/fire.

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