When a retired firefighter is diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma — and refuses to accept a GoFundMe — what happens to the money? The answer became one of Idaho's most impactful first responder foundations.
In this episode of North Idaho Experience, hosts Dave and Seth sit down with Jesse Welch, a Coeur d'Alene Police Officer, and his mother Sue Welch, to share the story behind the JW Memorial Foundation — a statewide Idaho nonprofit dedicated to providing immediate financial assistance to the families of law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS, and first responders killed or catastrophically injured in the line of duty.
Jeff Welch, Sue's husband and Jesse's father, was a career firefighter and former fire chief at Northern Lakes Fire who passed away after battling lymphoma. Before he died, he made Sue promise to launch a foundation modeled after the "100 Club" concept — one that would cut a check within days, not months, so families could keep the lights on while they grieve.
Learn how JW Memorial Foundation covers all 55 Idaho counties, supports out-of-state wildland firefighters killed on Idaho soil, provides up to $5,000/month for three months (or longer), and operates with zero red tape and no paid staff — all fueled by community donations and $25 annual memberships.
Whether you're a first responder, a community member, or someone thinking about relocating to North Idaho, this episode will show you why Idaho's first responder community is unlike anywhere else in the country.
🌐 Learn more & donate: www.jwmfidaho.com
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