Behind Every Call
LadiesAuxiliary
When the tones drop and the trucks roll, the Ladies Auxiliary is already moving — water, food, and care for the crews working the scene. They've been the backbone of this department since long before most of us were around.
1920+
Est.
Serving alongside the department since the beginning
100%
Volunteer
Every member gives their time — no paycheck, no shifts
24/7
Ready
On call for extended incidents day or night
What the Auxiliary does
More than
refreshments
The Ladies Auxiliary is an independent organization chartered to support Rush Fire Department — and their work covers far more than most people realize. On the fireground, in the station, and in the community, they make the department function.
Scene Rehab & Canteen
On long incidents — extended fires, multi-vehicle crashes, search operations — the Auxiliary sets up a canteen to keep crews hydrated, fed, and functional. Water, coffee, food, and a place to rest. This is operational support, not just hospitality.
Events & Open House
The Auxiliary handles food and refreshments at department events, the annual open house, community meetings, and the Carnival — clams, plates, hot dogs, hamburgs. If there's a gathering, they're feeding it.
Fundraising
Year-round fundraising — bake sales, raffles, and independent initiatives on top of the Carnival work. The Auxiliary's fundraising record is a department legend. Proceeds support operational costs, member welfare, and equipment.
Member & Family Support
When a member is sick, injured, or in crisis — or when a family needs a hand — the Auxiliary shows up. Meals, visits, and practical support for the people who answer your calls.
Don't let the name fool you
Open to everyone
It's been the "Ladies Auxiliary" since the early days, but that's history talking — membership is open to anyone in the community, men included. The Auxiliary runs as its own organization, with its own fundraisers supporting its own programs.
The Ladies Auxiliary has met at the station since the department was founded. Their presence is woven into the fabric of Rush Fire — in the station kitchen, at the scene, and in the community.
Membership
Join the
Auxiliary
The Rush Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary welcomes any adult member of the community who wants to support the department and its mission. You don't need to be related to a firefighter. You just need to want to help.
Membership is open to anyone 18 or older — men and women alike. New members are welcomed at any meeting; there's no formal application period and no dues to join.
Who Can Join
Any adult community member — firefighter family or not. All are welcome.
Monthly Meetings
The last Monday of each month, at Station 1. Come to any meeting to learn more.
Time Commitment
What you can give. Monthly meetings plus events and incident response as available.
No Dues
No membership dues. The Auxiliary runs its own fundraisers to support its own programs — your time is all it takes.
Come to a meeting
Next Meeting
When
The last Monday of each month
Where
Station 1 — 1971 Rush Mendon Rd, Rush, NY 14543
Contact
(585) 533-2058 — department business line
Walk-ins are always welcome at any monthly meeting. No RSVP required — just come through the door. The Auxiliary president or recording secretary will be glad to answer your questions.
The Auxiliary is
how we keep going.
Last Monday of each month — Station 1, 1971 Rush Mendon Rd, Rush, NY 14543