A $500,000 grant from the Iowa West Foundation will support a first responder education and training center planned near Gretna, Nebraska. The grant aims to address a longtime challenge for rural volunteer fire departments by expanding access to firefighter training.
The center would improve access to specialized instruction for volunteers who balance emergency response with full-time jobs. While paid departments are not funded directly by the grant, the facility would serve both volunteer and paid firefighters, with interest from Council Bluffs Fire Department.
Iowa Western Community College does not have immediate plans to expand its basic firefighter training.
The Iowa West Foundation awarded more than $4.6 million in grants and initiatives in its 2026 cycle.
For More Information: https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-grant-center/500k-grant-aims-to-expand-firefighter-training-for-rural-iowa-firefighters
