Our Story

The Livermore-Pleasanton Firefighters Foundation (LPFF) was born out of compassion and community spirit following a life-changing incident on May 1, 2006. On that early morning incident, Fire Captain Scott Walsh suffered a career-ending injury while battling a fire at the Pleasanton Transfer Station.  Soon after it became clear that our communities wanted to support one of our own and we experienced complex challenges accepting donations.  

Determined to make a difference, three members of IAFF Local 1974 worked tirelessly to establish the LPFF as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to offering financial and emotional support to firefighters and their families in times of need. These three Local 1974 members went on to become the first Board of Directors for the Foundation.

Our Early Years

After securing nonprofit status through the IRS, the Board focused on building relationships with the community through engaging and meaningful fundraising events. The Hook & Ladder Run quickly became the LPFF’s flagship event, helping to establish our presence and strengthen our relationship with local residents and businesses.

In 2011, the Board expanded to five members and together with the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department, launched the first Fire Safety Expo & Pancake Breakfast in October 2012—a tradition that continues to bring families and firefighters together each year. By 2014, the LPFF had hosted its first softball tournament. Through community partnerships and local businesses, the Foundation designed and built a custom BBQ trailer. The trailer has since become a beloved tool for fundraising, community outreach, and service—turning our passion for cooking into a way to give back.

Our Mission

The LPFF is a non-profit organization created to support injured and fallen firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and their families both locally and abroad. The Foundation also support several similarly aligned charities to include the Taylor Family Foundation, Firefighters Burn Institute, and the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation to name a few. The LPFF is steadfastly committed to the future of the fire service with scholarships for those who express the desire to carry on in our proud tradition of public service.

Moving Forward

As our organization continues to grow, so too do the ways we connect with our community. While the Hook & Ladder Run and Blazin’ Bocce Tournament have taken a pause, new and exciting events have emerged. Since 2023, the LPFF has proudly hosted the Hook & Ladder Soccer Tournament and looks forward to launching a golf tournament and crab feed in 2026.

We remain actively involved in beloved local traditions such as the Livermore Rodeo, Livermore Downtown Festival, and Trunk or Treat, where we serve up delicious food and fun while raising funds to support our Mission.

Board of Directors

Director Scott Canfield

Secretary Craig Freeman

Treasurer Craig Berchtold

Sitting Member Will Olivo

Sitting Member Loy Proudfoot