West Palm Beach Fire Department prepares to honor second group of teens completing summer Junior Alerts training program

West Palm Beach, Florida – After seven weeks of sweat, determination, and hands-on learning, more than a dozen local teens are getting ready to cross a milestone. On Monday, August 4, at 2 p.m., the West Palm Beach Fire Department will host a graduation ceremony at Fire Station 3, 5050 Broadway, honoring the second group of students to complete the department’s Junior Alerts program.

This summer initiative, made possible through a partnership with the Florence De George Boys & Girls Club, brought together teens every Monday at Station 3, where they trained side by side with actual firefighters. For many, this was their first real glimpse into the world of emergency services—a world filled with physical challenges, emotional resilience, and the duty to protect others.

Throughout the program, participants were immersed in real-life fire service techniques. From donning 40-pound bunker gear to rappelling and mastering hose maneuvers, the young recruits received intensive, hands-on instruction. They also practiced first aid, CPR, and learned how to safely operate a fire extinguisher—skills that could save lives at home, in school, or in the community.

Read also: Broward Education Foundation and SponsorPlace team up to revolutionize school sponsorships across the nation

“We are not only exposing them to a career in fire rescue; we are also helping them become better citizens,” said Chief Diana Matty. “They will have learned basic first aid, CPR, and other life-saving measures that could save a life at home or at school. These teens are our future lifesavers and leaders.”

What makes the Junior Alerts program especially unique is its layered mentorship. Teen volunteers from Palm Beach Lakes High School’s Fire Academy played a key role, guiding the younger students through the program. These mentors shared their personal experiences, encouraged teamwork, and helped students build confidence. The connections made during these weeks weren’t just between hose and hydrant—but human to human, peer to peer.

The program is more than just about fire safety—it’s about character. While some students might walk away inspired to pursue a career in fire service, all of them finish with a deeper understanding of responsibility, discipline, and leadership. The West Palm Beach Fire Department believes that by investing in young people today, they are strengthening the community’s safety and leadership for tomorrow.

“It’s incredible to see the growth in these kids,” said one instructor. “They came in shy, unsure, and curious. Now they’re confident, capable, and eager to help. That transformation doesn’t happen in a classroom—it happens out here, through sweat, trust, and teamwork.”

Read also: Templeton & Company, LLP welcomes two new partners to enhance its growing team of experts

Parents and community members are invited to attend Monday’s graduation, where students will be recognized not only for completing a physically demanding course but for embracing the values that define the fire service—service, integrity, and courage.

As the department prepares to welcome its next group of Junior Alerts in future summers, the success of this second graduating class signals that the program is growing in both popularity and impact.

With each young person who walks out of Station 3 a little taller, a little stronger, and a lot more prepared, the City of West Palm Beach is one step closer to building a safer, more resilient future.