ATLANTIC, IA, AUGUST 1, 2025 — Since 1954, fire fighters have united communities to collect critical funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) – one dollar at a time – through the Fill the Boot program. This year, fire fighters from Atlantic Fire & Rescue will continue this legacy during MDA’s 75th anniversary, marking 71 years of support from fire fighters nationwide. Dedicated fire fighters from Atlantic Fire & Rescue will take to the streets and other locations with boots in hand, asking pedestrians and motorists to help transform the lives of children and adults living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and other related neuromuscular diseases. The event will take place on August 9^th during Atlantic Fest.

Over the past seven decades, fire fighters have raised more than $710 million for MDA, helping fund over $1 billion in research. These contributions have fueled significant advancements in medical research, including the development of more than 20 FDA-approved treatments for neuromuscular disease since 2015. “For 71 years, fire fighters have proudly supported the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s mission to help families live longer, stronger lives, and we are honored to continue this partnership during MDA’s 75th anniversary,” said Tom Cappel, Chief and Fill the Boot Coordinator for Atlantic Fire & Rescue. “Every dollar raised in our community helps fund life-changing research and care that makes a difference for families nationwide.”

In addition to Fill the Boot, fire fighters volunteer at MDA Summer Camp, providing children with neuromuscular diseases a week of fun and independence.

Community members are encouraged to visit fire fighters during Atlantic Fest or donate online at https://filltheboot.donordrive.com/teams/20140#donate (or scan the QR Code below) to support this vital cause.