History of the Frank Colea Golf Tournament

The Frank Colea Golf Tournament is an annual event held each June that pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Chief Frank Colea, affectionately known as "Father Frank." Initiated in 1995, this heartfelt tournament has become a symbol of compassion and community support, reaching beyond the golf course to make a profound impact on the lives of the fire fighters, paramedics and families of the Prince George's County Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics Association.

Key Milestones:

• Founding Year (1994): The inaugural tournament was established in 1994, dedicated to the memory of Chief Frank Colea, who succumbed to cancer in 1994. Chief Colea, known for his unselfish and compassionate nature, earned the nickname "Father Frank" for consistently prioritizing the needs of others above his own.

• Purpose and Impact: The primary objective of the Frank Colea Golf Tournament has been to raise funds for The Frank Colea Benevolent Fund, which is now known as the Prince George's County Professional Firefighters Charitable Foundation. This fund serves as a vital financial "life net," offering assistance to firefighters and their families during the most challenging periods in their lives.

• Financial Achievements: Over the years, the tournament has achieved remarkable success, raising over $100,000. These funds have been instrumental in supporting The Prince George's County Professional Firefighters Charitable Foundation and its diverse range of initiatives.

The Prince George's County Professional Firefighters Charitable Foundation: The funds generated by the tournament have been channeled into The Prince George's County Professional Firefighters Charitable Foundation, facilitating various forms of support for firefighters and their families. Notable contributions include:

• Renting hospital equipment for bedridden members.
• Assisting in making homes handicap accessible.
• Purchasing Christmas gifts for the children of a burned firefighter during their recovery in the Burn Unit.
• Funding experimental cancer treatment for a member battling cancer.
• Assisting with the purchase of a wheelchair-accessible van for a member's child affected by Muscular Dystrophy.
• Providing support to the families of deceased members by covering bereavement expenses.

Community Impact: The Frank Colea Golf Tournament extends beyond its golfing context, creating a sense of community and solidarity. By actively addressing the financial burdens faced by firefighters during tough times, the event exemplifies the power of collective compassion within the firefighting community.

Legacy and Continuation: As the Frank Colea Golf Tournament continues to unfold each year, it carries forward the spirit of "Father Frank" Colea, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and community service. The tournament remains a living tribute to Chief Frank Colea's legacy, embodying the principle that acts of kindness and support can have a lasting impact on those who dedicate their lives to the safety and well-being of others.