Central York Fire Services seeks to INSPIRE the next generation of first responders at upcoming event

NEWMARKET, Ontario, February 17, 2026 - Central York Fire Services (CYFS) will host the fifth annual INSPIRE event on Saturday, March 7 to ignite interest in the next generation of first responders. Held in recognition of International Women’s Day, this event brings together community partners whose work centres on the wellness, support and empowerment of girls and women.

What:

INSPIRE is a free, annual, drop-in event hosted by a community of first responders and local advocates for youth and minority groups. This event is hosted by CYFS with support from York Regional Police (YRP), York Region Paramedic Services, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Seneca Polytechnic Firefighting program and many more. This event is focused on inspiring future generations to consider a career in the field and celebrate the role that first responders play in keeping the community safe. Participants can meet and chat with local firefighters, paramedics, police, municipal enforcement officers, local entrepreneurs, and non-profit organizations to learn about how they do their jobs and how others can follow a path to a rewarding career.

Event includes:

• Opportunity to visit with 20+ local, regional, and provincial organizations, community groups, advocates, and entrepreneurs who serve York Region and beyond
• See life-saving demonstrations by Southlake Hospital and learn about CPR from local paramedics
• Try on gear, tour emergency service vehicles
• Get free giveaways, build important contacts, and leave INSPIRED!

When:

Saturday, March 7, 2026
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where:

Ian Laing Headquarters (300 Earl Stewart Drive, Aurora)

Who:

• York Region Paramedic Services
• York Regional Police
• Ontario Provincial Police
• Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office
• Aurora Black Community
• Rose of Sharon
• Seneca Polytechnic Firefighting program
• Town of Aurora and Newmarket Municipal Enforcement Officers
• Newmarket Public Library
• Southlake Regional Hospital
• Local, provincial, and federal public officials
• And many more community groups, advocates, and entrepreneurs

For more information, visit cyfs.ca/inspire.

Please note this event is taking place indoors and is not weather dependent.