IAFF Local 1210 members ‘Make a Muscle, Make A Difference’ with Juan Carlos Morales (MDA family) during his Coral Gables station visit where he shared his personal story and thanked firefighters for their support and reminded them about the families they are helping.

Members of Coral Gables International Association of Firefighters Local 1210 are hitting the streets this week for the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Fill the Boot” annual drive.

Firefighters throughout Miami-Dade County began collecting donations on Monday and will continue through Friday Aug. 31 to support MDA.

This year Local 1210 members have set a goal of $10,000, which would enable 13 MDA children and their counselors to attend the MDA-sponsored summer camp.

The camp offers a wide range of programs for youngsters ages 6-17 who are affected by neuromuscular disease. Campers attend weeklong sessions organized by MDA volunteers and staff. Camp activities are geared to the abilities of campers and may include fishing, swimming, horseback riding, boating, field hockey and baseball. Less physically demanding activities include arts and crafts, nature study, talent shows, cookouts and entertainment.

The primary responsibility of each counselor is to provide both physical and psychological support to his/her camper, thereby helping the child to enjoy camp.

“I am excited about working with Coral Gables Local 1210 again this year!” said MDA Executive Director Joanne Bowsman. “All its members did a fantastic job during last year’s FTB drive and helped raised more than $8,000 – close to a $2,000 increase from the previous year. I am confident that with the community’s support they will be able to surpass this year’s goal.”

Gables Fire Rescue this year is incorporating social media to help Fill the Boot — to donate on line, just click here.