Believe 31
Posted by Dustin Horton // September 25, 2025 // News
8377 Brewerton Rd., Cicero
Dear Supporter,
I am writing on behalf of Believe 31, a 501(c)3 organization committed to providing assistance to volunteer firefighters and auxiliary members battling cancer or other life-threatening illnesses within Cortland, Madison, Onondaga and Oswego Counties. As cancer rates amongst firefighters continue to increase, the mission of Believe 31 is to provide financial and emotional support to volunteers who are diagnosed with this terrible disease.
As a result of this, we are launching a new campaign aiming to raise additional funding from those fire departments and supporters in the counties we cover to continue to provide the financial support to our brothers and sisters in need.
Cancer can be a life-altering experience, and it’s even more challenging for those who have always been at the forefront of protecting others. Should a member of your department find themselves in need of assistance from Believe 31, an application for financial assistance can be viewed and downloaded from our website at believe31.org. You can also visit our comprehensive list of cancer-related resources, partnerships with other organizations that is free to access.
In the fire service, cancer prevention starts with post fire gross decontamination and if your department or section is interested in hosting a training session to review this process, please feel free to contact us and we will coordinate. As we have also partnered with OFPC, we have enclosed a brochure containing additional information on “Best Practices for Decontamination”.
The Board of Directors and Executive Board invite you, your department, association or business to become part of our team; whether joining us at our monthly meetings, fundraising events or allowing us to set up a Believe 31 table during public events you host to sell our tee shirts and other merchandise as well as educate on the importance of our organization.
If you would like further information on the opportunities we offer or how to make a secure donation to assist us with supporting our mission, this can be done by visiting our website at www.believe31.org or contacting us as info@believe31.org.
Every contribution, no matter how small, can help improve the life of your fellow firefighter and their family. Thank you for considering our request and for your continued support. Together, we can create a difference in the lives of these heroes.
