This Mother’s Day, South Media Fire Company is highlighting how volunteering can bring families together, as one local mother and son turn a shared interest into a meaningful way to serve their community.
For Zachary Rehak, the path to the fire service started early. He has wanted to be a firefighter for as long as he can remember, spending years visiting stations, attending parades and learning about fire apparatus. That interest led him to join South Media Fire Company’s cadet program the week of his 14th birthday. Not long after, his mother, Katie Kenyon, followed.
The pair first connected with the fire company during an open house visit and were immediately drawn to its welcoming culture and strong mentorship for young volunteers. Today, they both serve the organization in different but complementary roles.
Rehak is now an active cadet, training in essential firefighting skills. He also balances his volunteer work with school and track and field, and is working toward enrolling in the Delaware County Technical School Emergency and Protective Services program.
“Sometimes it’s challenging to balance all my responsibilities, but I try to make it to training every week because I know how important it is. Every time I go to the station, I learn something new,” Rehak said.
One of his most memorable experiences so far was responding to a vehicle accident during the Santa Run, which gave him a firsthand look at how emergency scenes are managed.
While Rehak is involved in the action, Kenyon supports the fire company in an administrative role, handling a wide range of responsibilities that keep the organization running behind the scenes. Her work includes clerical support, organizing and inventorying supplies, assisting new volunteers with onboarding and uniforms, and researching grant opportunities. She has also taken part in weekly training drills and truck check nights to better understand the operational side of the department.
“I hadn’t planned to join at first, but once I saw the impact and understood how much support the company needs beyond firefighting, it felt like a place I wanted to contribute,” Kenyon said.
Volunteering has strengthened their relationship at a time when many families find their schedules and interests pulling them in different directions. Kenyon said the experience has created a shared point of connection, from weekly activities at the station to conversations at home about calls, equipment and training.
“As teens grow more independent, it’s not always easy to find ways to stay connected,” she said. “This gives us something meaningful to do alongside each other.”
Rehak said the mentorship he has received from experienced members has been one of the most valuable parts of his experience.
“I feel like I have a group of mentors who are good at teaching and helping me learn,” he said. “I’m gaining skills now that will make me more prepared and confident in the future.”
Kenyon added that the fire company offers opportunities for people of all interests and skill sets, not just those who want to fight fires.
“There are so many ways to get involved,” she said. “From firefighting to administrative support, fundraising and community outreach, there is truly a role for everyone.”
South Media Fire Company continues to welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels, including families who are looking for a way to give back together.
“When your child tells you who they are, believe them,” Kenyon said. “We’ve supported Zach’s interest in firefighting since he was young, and it’s incredible to see that passion grow into something real.”
Families interested in volunteering together are encouraged to learn more and get involved at www.SouthMediaFire.com.