CASA and Bowling Green Fire Department Celebrate 'Fire Chief for the Day'
A ride in a red engine is a big day for any kid in Bowling Green. That joy was the point this week as CASA of South Central Kentucky teamed up with the Bowling Green Fire Department to recognize a local child as “Fire Chief for the Day,” according to a report by WNKY News 40.
The celebration brought two hometown institutions together around a simple idea: give a young person a proud memory and put community support front and center. BGFD has long made room in its schedule for outreach and education, and CASA’s staff and volunteers are a familiar presence in Warren County’s family courts.
Purpose Behind the Initiative
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) recruits and trains community volunteers to speak up for children in the court system, helping judges make informed decisions about safety and stability. That’s the backbone of the program across Kentucky, according to the Kentucky CASA Network, which supports local CASA programs statewide.
For its part, the Bowling Green Fire Department pairs emergency response with public education—everything from school visits to fire safety talks—so families know how the department works before they need help, per the City of Bowling Green Fire Department. Recognitions like “Fire Chief for the Day” are symbolic, but they also create a positive, hands-on experience for a child who may be navigating a tough season.
Event Highlights
WNKY’s report focused on the honor itself and the department’s partnership with CASA. While the station didn’t list a full itinerary, days like this typically center on learning what firefighters do, seeing equipment up close, and connecting names and faces with the trucks you hear around town—hallmarks of BGFD’s public education efforts, according to the department’s outreach information.
Even small moments—trying on a helmet for a photo, sitting in the front seat, or hearing how a call is dispatched—can turn a city service into something a child can understand and trust. That’s especially meaningful for kids working with CASA, who benefit when more adults in their world feel approachable.
Community Impact and Collaboration
BGFD leaders routinely describe community engagement as part of the job, not an extra. The department’s mission centers on protecting life and property through both prevention and response, a balance the City outlines on the BGFD homepage. Partnering with CASA aligns with that prevention mindset by building relationships early and often.
CASA’s local team emphasizes that consistent adult advocacy can improve outcomes for children in court. That’s the reason volunteers commit to visiting, reporting, and staying with a case until it’s resolved—an approach the Kentucky CASA Network says helps judges get a fuller picture of a child’s needs. Public moments like “Fire Chief for the Day” raise awareness that this work is happening right here and that it’s powered by neighbors.
How Readers Can Get Involved
- Volunteer with CASA: If you’ve thought about stepping in as a court-appointed advocate, start with the Kentucky CASA Network’s overview and connect to the South Central Kentucky program from there. Training is provided; details vary by session, so check ahead via the Kentucky CASA Network to be routed to the local office.
- Learn with BGFD: The City lists contact information and programs for station tours and fire safety education. To ask about scheduling a visit or an educational demo, use the contact options on the Bowling Green Fire Department page and request community risk reduction or public education.
- Spread the word: Share CASA’s volunteer info with a friend at WKU, your neighborhood association, or your PTA; many advocates get started after a personal invitation.
What to Watch
CASA typically announces information sessions and trainings on a rolling basis; watch the Kentucky CASA Network and the local program’s channels for the next dates. BGFD shares community education opportunities and seasonal safety tips through the City’s website—check in as fall event calendars come together. If another “Fire Chief for the Day” opportunity is planned, expect updates from WNKY or the City’s communications team.
