LIBERTY — Sullivan 180 will participate in the 9th Annual Hudson Valley Gives on May 15. Donations to Sullivan 180 will support the 2024 Healthiest Fire Department Challenge Turtle Awards. 

The Sullivan 180 Healthiest Fire Department Challenge focuses on the health and well-being of our county’s firefighters by promoting healthy eating, physical activity and mental health. Departments receive credit in the form of ‘turtle points’ for each health-focused activity they complete. Earning these points makes the department eligible for grant funding in the form of Turtle Awards at the end of the challenge in September. The Challenge was designed to be fun, yet impactful, with a touch of competition to introduce resources and promote healthy lifestyles within the firefighter culture.

“The Wurtsboro Fire Department is very appreciative to have received $1,500 in grant funds from Sullivan 180 for the Healthiest Fire Department Challenge,” said Sara Frost, Wurtsboro Fire Department Challenge Captain. “We were able to buy some much needed gym equipment. A recumbent bike, gazelle, rowing machine, pull up bar, gym mats, walking pad, and weights. We even purchased a volleyball set to have some fun outside. This equipment will allow all our members access to a healthy fitness area right in our own building.”

Hudson Valley Gives is an annual day of online fundraising led by the Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan. Local and regional non-profit organizations, including Sullivan 180, participate and fundraise for various causes. For more information on how to donate to local non-profits through Hudson Valley Gives, visit HVGives.org.  If you are interested in sponsoring a Turtle Award, contact Kassondra Johnstone at 845-295-2682 or Kassondra@Sullivan180.org .