Each year, our Credit Union honours an individual or organization who has embodied the essence of selflessness, dedication, and innovation in service to the fire service community with the John J. Rider Award; a distinction that stands as the pinnacle of excellence and dedication within the Credit Union, and also the Ontario Fire service community.
The John Rider Award commemorates the indelible legacy of John Rider; a Toronto firefighter whose contributions transcended the call of duty. His work with the Credit Union and the broader fire service community has left an enduring impact, guiding the path for future generations, and setting an unparalleled standard of commitment and community service.
In 2025, it is our honour to present the John J. Rider Award to the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation (CFFF), in recognition of their dedication to honoring Canada’s fallen firefighters and their families.
Since its inception, the CFFF’s objectives have been to build the Canadian Firefighters Memorial, to operate the Canadian Firefighters Annual Memorial Ceremony and update the memorial wall. To host the families of fallen firefighters in Ottawa during the memorial weekend. In addition, the CFFF Education Fund provides scholarships and bursaries to the children and spouses of Canadian firefighters whose line of duty death has been recognized by the Foundation. The Foundation’s ultimate goal is to provide education assistance to every child of a fallen firefighter. As well as providing funeral assistance and access to support services for the families of the fallen through our partnership with Wounded Warriors. In 2024, helmet and medallion presentations were made to 115 families of the fallen who were recognized, not just to those who were serving at the time of their passing. This past year, families stood in front of the red ceremonial table as presentations were made to in-person attendees, and 159 names were added to the national wall.
The CFFF continues to fulfill its mission to HONOUR and REMEMBER all fallen firefighters, and to provide SUPPORT and assistance to their loved ones left behind to the best of their abilities
This award is a testament to individual or organizational achievements, and a celebration of our community’s enduring bonds of camaraderie, resilience, and shared purpose. Together, we stand united in our admiration and respect for those who go above and beyond to selflessly dedicate their lives to the safety of others and the advancement of our collective mission.
ON HAND TO ASSIST IN THE AWARD PRESENTATION IS MS. FRAN RIDER, DAUGHTER OF JOHN J. RIDER
