Benefactor Equips Fire Department
St. Paul, Minnesota (pop. 288,000) -- St. Paul community leader John Nasseff was traveling in Arizona in the summer of 2000 when he saw a news story about a child being rescued by firefighters who were equipped with thermal imagers. Upon his return to his hometown of St. Paul, he called the fire department to ask if the technology was available there.
At the time, several helmet-mounted units were available to St. Paul firefighters, but they were not being used. Mr. Nasseff quickly decided to change that with a donation of ten thermal imagers in 2001. Bullard was selected for its reliability and durability.
St. Paul Public Information Officer Ted Vanderbeek explained why Mr. Nasseff is committed to equipping the department with thermal imagers.
“John had seen the capability of the units on a newscast and knew thermal imagers would be a great thing for the department and the community,” Vanderbeek said. “When he saw that child’s life being saved, he knew that he wanted that capability for his own community and the fire department back home. Mr. Nasseff is a very generous man who has done a lot for our community. The money he has donated always has a direct impact on people’s lives.”
In 1998, the City of St. Paul established the John Nasseff Community Service Award for corporations or community leaders who provide valuable service to the community or contribute to the betterment of fire department services in St. Paul.
In 2002, the John Nasseff Community Service award went to HealthPartners and Regions Hospital for their charitable donation and continued commitment to the Department of Fire and Safety Services and the Community Awards Recognition Dinner. Mr. Nasseff presented the award at the event, which was held on Jan. 24 at the Saint Paul Hotel.
John Nasseff is the former president and CEO of West Publishing Company, a leading publisher of law library books and statute updates.
Funding Tip:
Before approaching large potential benefactors, try to get familiar with the benefits of thermal imaging that would impact them the most, so you can make the most compelling case when you have their attention in a presentation. PowerPoint presentations are recommended when reaching out to large benefactors, as well as civic clubs, local businesses and local government. Contact Bullard at 877-BULLARD to request a PowerPoint presentation to use in these types of meetings.