Our Story
Hometown Heroes exists to support the first responders who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities. Through fundraising, community partnerships, and grantmaking, we help provide lifesaving equipment, training, and critical resources for first responder and emergency service organizations throughout our region.
Our story began in 2013 with a single Hometown Heroes Night at a Fargo Force game. What started as one event quickly grew into an annual community tradition at Scheels Arena and eventually into something much bigger.
As the event evolved, so did its impact. More first responder and emergency service organizations began applying funding, and the growing need inspired us to think beyond a single annual event. From raising $10,000 at our inaugural event to more than $117,000 at our most recent Hometown Heroes Night, we saw firsthand how the community can come together to make a meaningful difference.
In 2026, Hometown Heroes was established as an independent nonprofit organization to expand that impact beyond a single event. Today, through multiple fundraising initiatives, community partnerships, and grant opportunities, we're building a sustainable way to support the heroes who dedicate their lives to protecting ours.
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Mission
Support first responders by providing grants for equipment, training, and critical resources through community fundraising and partnerships.
Vision
A future where every first responder has access to the tools and resources they need to safely protect and serve their community.
Values
Community
Service
Integrity
Collaboration
Stewardship
Big Ideas, Real Impact.
Turning Generosity Into Action
Our mission goes beyond hosting events. We bring together donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners to provide grants that help first responders access the equipment, training, and resources they need.
💰 Raise Funds
Through signature events, sponsorships, donations, and community partnerships.
🎯 Award Grants
Supporting first responder and emergency service organizations with equipment, training, and other mission-driven needs.
❤️ Strengthen Communities
By bringing people together to celebrate and support those who serve.
Meet Our Signature Events
Our Commitment
We're committed to ensuring every dollar entrusted to Hometown Heroes is used responsibly, transparently, and with purpose. Through thoughtful grantmaking, financial stewardship, and community partnerships, we strive to maximize our impact while remaining accountable to the donors, sponsors, volunteers, and organizations who make our mission possible.
💙 Responsible Stewardship
We carefully manage every donation and sponsorship to maximize its impact for first responders and emergency service organizations.
🤝 Fair Grant Process
Grant applications are reviewed through an established evaluation process to help ensure funding is awarded where it can make the greatest impact.
📈 Transparency
We're committed to sharing our impact through annual fundraising results, grant recipients, and the stories behind the equipment and resources made possible by our supporters.
Hometown Heroes at a Glance
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2013
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2026
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Fargo, ND
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60-mile radius to Fargo
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Volunteer Board of Directors
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501(c)(3) Application Pending
Hometown Heroes Inc. has applied for recognition as a federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and is currently awaiting a determination from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).