The Aspen Fire Department, The Hero In You Foundation, first responders and community members will come together at the Aspen Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Week Open House for the public unveiling and dedication of “R. Hero,” a six-foot tall, red Dalmatian puppy sculpture that honors first responders and inspires youth to become heroes. Throughout the event, guests will be given the opportunity to participate in hands-on fire safety demonstrations, ride fire trucks and tour the fire station.
The sculpture is being donated by The Hero In You Foundation, founded by Bunni and Rick Benaron to pay tribute to first responders and serve as a visual reminder of the sacrifices that firefighters, police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses and military personnel make daily. By installing these large aluminum Dalmatian puppy sculptures in public places, children and their parents, caregivers and teachers have a conversation starter about the traits of a hero – courage, respect, honor and compassion for others. The Aspen Fire Department will be home to one of 26 unique “R. Hero” sculptures across the nation, with additional international installations in El Salvador and Israel.
The Hero In You Foundation recently launched the “R. Hero Rules for Safety,” an educational program, free to the community, that teaches children five safety steps to follow in case of an emergency, as well as an online curriculum. Rocket, an animated Dalmatian puppy, helps children find “the hero in you” while learning more about the work of all first responders. All attendees will receive an R. Hero coloring book and additional resources at the event.
