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Our Support for Firefighters, First Responders, and Their Families
Helping during illness, injury, line-of-duty death, and other times of crisis
When firefighters, first responders, or their families face serious challenges, the Anne Arundel Firefighters Emerald Society steps in to help. We provide direct financial assistance, scholarships, and meaningful support during illness, injury, line-of-duty death, and other times of crisis. Our focus is simple: take care of our own when it matters most.
$50k + in Direct Assistance Provided
Who We Help
We provide direct support to:
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First responders injured or facing serious illness on or off the job
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Retired first responders experiencing similar crisis
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Families of fallen first responders
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First responder families impacted by sudden emergencies such as house fires, catastrophic illness, or unexpected loss
Support is provided with dignity, discretion, and respect for privacy.
How We Provide Support
Our assistance is focused on real needs, real moments, and real impact, including:
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Emergency financial assistance
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Medical-related expenses and travel support
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Temporary housing or essential living needs
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Family support following line-of-duty deaths
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Education and long-term support for surviving families
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We do not publicize names or situations without permission — the help matters more than the recognition.
The John C. Greene Memorial Fund is the primary charitable fund of the Anne Arundel Firefighters Emerald Society, dedicated to helping first responders and their families in times of need.
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The fund honors the life and legacy of FF/PM John Calvert Greene (1949–2004), one of the founding members of the Emerald Society. John was a proud Irishman, a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War, and one of Anne Arundel County’s first paramedics. Known for his infectious enthusiasm, tireless work ethic, and unwavering dedication to the fire service, John embodied the spirit of brotherhood and generosity that the Emerald Society stands for today.
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Even through life’s challenges—including his final battle with cancer—John remained resilient, cheerful, and devoted to his family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy of service and compassion lives on through this fund, which continues his mission of supporting those who sacrifice so much for others.
The John C. Greene
Memorial Fund
#1818Strong Scholarship
In 2021, Firefighter Greg Leonard was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. Greg's family and friends rallied around him to help him fight the disease and the #1818Strong hashtag was born, recognizing Greg's fire department badge number.
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The Scholarship Fund awards annual scholarships to Anne Arundel County fire service members who have retired due to injury or illness, or to the families of Anne Arundel County fire service members who have retired due to injury or illness, or who suffered a Line of Duty Death
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The #1818Strong Scholarship fund provides an annual investment for Greg's boys, Kip and Dash. This fund will help ensure that Greg and his family do not have to worry about funding their boy's future education needs.