Who We Are
Battalion Chief of Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Frank J. Harwood was hardworking, devoted, and much loved and deeply respected in every one of his roles — as husband, father, soldier, firefighter, and leader. He dedicated his life to helping and serving his family, his colleagues, and his community.
His life ended prematurely on June 29, 2025, while in the line of duty. To honor Frank’s legacy as a builder and healer, FJH Initiative will continue Frank’s mission of service by helping the youth of our community to build lives of meaning, service, and purpose.
Mission Statement
Honoring the legacy of Battalion Chief Frank J. Harwood by providing the youth of tomorrow and first responder families with transformative outdoor experiences, life skills education, mental health support, and positive mentorship that builds resilience, leadership, and brighter futures.
Vision Statement
We hope to build a world where youth and first responder families don’t just survive, but thrive. This can be achieved by strengthening their connection to nature and to community, creating a legacy of hope, hardiness, and optimism that transcends generations, geography, and background.
Core Values
- Honor: To carry forward the legacy of Battalion Chief Frank J. Harwood by serving others with the same courage, dedication, and selflessness he demonstrated throughout his life and career.
- Fortitude: We believe in the ability of every person to overcome any adversity. By providing support and mentorship, we help youth and first responder families build the strength to face and overcome challenges, obstacles, and setbacks, viewing them as opportunities to shape our characters in positive ways, not as justification for destructive behavior.
- Connection: We create opportunities to foster meaningful relationships between mentors and youth, among first responder families, and with nature, knowing that healing and growth flourish best in healthy relationships, shared accountability, and genuine appreciation of the natural world.
- Service: We are committed to serving those who serve us according to the means available to us. First responders sacrifice for our safety, and we will stand beside them and their families with resources, care, and gratitude.
- Growth: We believe every person has untapped potential to contribute positively to society according to their unique gifts. Through exposure to and involvement in outdoor experiences, education, and mentorship, we create space for personal growth, transformation, and new possibilities.
- Mental Wellness: We prioritize mental health as essential to building a fulfilling and productive life. We work to reduce stigma, build self-esteem, and provide accessible support for youth and first responders alike.
- Nature: We believe that active and regular engagement with nature, away from screens and noise, has the power to heal, teach, and inspire. Time in nature fosters clarity and calm, and stimulates the desire to approach life with hope.
- Integrity: We operate with transparency, honesty, and accountability in all we do, honoring the trust placed in us by those we serve and those who support our mission.