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.

A group of firefighters in uniform standing on an ice rink, some with helmets, under colorful lighting.

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

Ice hockey arena with players standing on the ice rink, audience in the stands, and officials lined up in front, during the national anthem or a moment of silence.

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

A badge with a shield shape featuring a target symbol, the text 'Cross Insulation Inc.', 'Fargo Force Hometown Heroes', and three stars at the bottom.
Logo for the hockey game titled 'Battle of the Bays' with a police versus fire theme, featuring hockey pucks, hockey sticks, and stars.
Badge for the Bags & Bags Cornhole Tournament featuring a cornhole board with a red pillow and the event name in bold letters, with a blue, red, and white color scheme.

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

Join Our Mission