Photo provided, photo courtesy of Reeder’s Photography
In Valparaiso, the MAAC Foundation invites the community to its First Responder Appreciation & Demonstration Day (FRADD) on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Central at the MAAC Foundation campus in Valparaiso. Organizers say the free event offers an up-close look at emergency response through live demonstrations, hands-on activities, and opportunities to meet the people who serve and protect our communities. More than 60 departments and agencies are confirmed to participate, with three helicopter landings planned throughout the day. Visitors can explore emergency vehicles, watch first responders demonstrate their skills and learn how training prepares them for real-world emergencies.
“FRADD gives families a chance to meet their local first responders, ask questions and see firsthand the skill and teamwork their work requires,” said Nicole Gladstone, President and CEO of the MAAC Foundation. “It is also an opportunity to show these men and women that their community stands behind them and values the work they do every day.” The event will feature several demonstrations including vehicle extrication, rope rescue, water rescue, fire sprinkler burn, and more.
“When we created the MAAC, the goal was to give first responders a place to train together, challenge themselves and prepare for the situations they know that they will be expected to measure up to,” said Stewart McMillan, founder of the MAAC Foundation. “FRADD opens that work to the public. People can see what goes into being ready to answer the call and understand why access to quality training matters.”
Admission is free, and the event will take place rain or shine. Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend. The MAAC Foundation First Responder Training Campus is at 4203 Montdale Park Drive in Valparaiso, IN. For additional information and event updates, visit maacfoundation.org/fradd .
