About RFRF

Who we are and why we do what we do

Our Mission, Purpose & Vision

Our Mission is to encourage and strengthen the partnership between the citizens of Roswell and our public safety first responders. RFRF is dedicated to providing critical resources to those who make the City of Roswell a safe place to live, work, and visit. RFRF raises funds for programs through a variety of events sponsored by local businesses, civic organizations, neighborhoods, and individuals.

Roswell firefighters battling a structure fire at night, illuminated by emergency lights.
"To strengthen that partnership between the citizens of Roswell and our public safety first responders."

Our Vision

To sustain an ongoing program to provide support including but not limited to:

  • Financial assistance for first responders injured or killed in the line of duty or enduring a family hardship
  • Recognizing Roswell firefighter and police officer heroes who demonstrate exceptional skill, expertise, innovation, bravery, and commitment
  • Purchasing supplementary or unbudgeted equipment and training materials to keep Roswell first responders performing at the highest level
First responders ceremonially folding an American flag in honor of service and sacrifice.

Making a Difference

RFRF community outreach with local children.

How It Started

Michael and Roxie Hernandez, founders of the Roswell First Responders Foundation.

Michael Hernandez and his wife Roxie Hernandez founded the Roswell First Responders Foundation out of a deep admiration for the men and women who protect the City of Roswell. What began as a simple idea — to give back to those who give so much — has grown into an active community organization that has helped dozens of families in their times of greatest need.

  1. 2002

    Michael & Roxie Hernandez begin serving free meals to Roswell first responders during the week of September 11 — a tradition they have continued every year since.

  2. 2023

    The Roswell First Responders Foundation is founded and receives its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.

  3. 2024

    RFRF awards its first grant in direct support of Roswell's first responders.

  4. 2025

    RFRF launches its new website.

  1. 2002

    Michael & Roxie Hernandez begin serving free meals to Roswell first responders during the week of September 11 — a tradition they have continued every year since.

  2. 2023

    The Roswell First Responders Foundation is founded and receives its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.

  3. 2024

    RFRF awards its first grant in direct support of Roswell's first responders.

  4. 2025

    RFRF launches its new website.

Roswell Fire Department receiving the 2025 Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Award
Fire Chief Trouche of the Roswell Fire Department.

Roswell's Commitment to Excellence

Roswell's public safety departments are nationally recognized for their excellence. The Roswell Fire Department received the prestigious 2025 Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award — a testament to the caliber of the men and women RFRF is proud to support.

Honor & Remembrance

State recognition, memorials, and processions — the moments that remind our community what service costs and why we keep showing up.

Roswell Police and Fire command staff with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp at the Rotary Club of Roswell.
The Officer Jeremy Labonte Memorial Interchange sign, dedicated by the Georgia General Assembly.
Roswell emergency vehicles in a winter procession through morning fog along a Roswell road.
A Roswell Police officer with residents beside the department’s tactical response vehicle.
Roswell PD motor officers and a Roswell Fire engine with community members at an event.
A Roswell Fire ladder truck flying a U.S. flag beside a vintage police cruiser in downtown Roswell.

Support Our Mission

Join us in strengthening the bond between Roswell and its first responders.

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