On October 28, students and staff at the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) Learning Center hosted the first annual National First Responders Day celebration, honoring the bravery and dedication of those who keep our community safe every day. Participating departments included the Coatesville Fire Department, Thorndale Fire Department, Minquas EMS and Fire Department, and Caln Township Fire Department.

“It was our school’s honor to celebrate the first responders who tirelessly provide their time and services to best support our students and staff,” said Joe Lentz, dean of students at the CCIU Learning Center. “Their dedication to providing these services during a time of need with the utmost dignity and respect is always greatly appreciated and is a reflection of their pride in their service. This luncheon was a small token of appreciation, knowing they all deserve so much more. We look forward to continuing this celebration annually.”

Jim Lentz, Coatesville Battalion Chief and brother of Joe Lentz, also shared his appreciation for the event, adding, “Our shift had an amazing lunch and particularly enjoyed the opportunity to network with the students and staff of the CCIU Learning Center on National First Responders Day. We appreciate the team of staff members who put in a tremendous amount of effort every day. We should be honoring them, as they make our job look easy.”

Students from the CCIU Learning Center’s Culinary, Horticulture, and Hospitality programs played a role in making the event a success, preparing refreshments, floral arrangements, and decorations with care and professionalism. Their efforts created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflected the spirit of gratitude at the heart of the day.

The celebration served as a meaningful reminder of the strong partnerships between first responders, educators, and students, and the shared commitment to building a safer, more connected community.