Mentor and Mentee Team Up to Help Provide Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine

Shout-out to Firefighter Candidate Mentorship Program Mentor Lieutenant William Patsakos and his Mentee Probationary Firefighter Daniel Heydebrand for teaming up in Long Island last month to help provide humanitarian aid to Ukrainian medical institutions, first responders and patients.

“Dan did not hesitate to donate his time for the cause, which showed me how much pride he has for the Department and for giving back so early in his career,” said Patsakos, who joined the FDNY in 2003.

“Lieutenant Patsakos reached out to me and asked if I could lend a hand in transporting the supplies collected for Ukraine and I was glad to help him and help with a great cause,” added Heydebrand, who graduated from the Fire Academy this past March.

The two first responders also noted that being a part of the Firefighter Candidate Mentorship Program, which is offered to Firefighter Candidates once their list number is called for processing, has been important in their careers.

“I decided to become a Mentor because I saw how helpful the Firefighter Candidate Mentorship Program was for Firefighter Candidates who do not have family on the job and I felt like I had the chance to help shape the future of the Department, so I applied for the position,” said Patsakos, who works at Ladder 146 in Brooklyn.

“Participating in the Mentorship Program was great. I don’t have any family on the job and Lieutenant Patsakos helped me get an idea of what the Academy will be like, what life in the firehouse will be like, and what is expected of me as a Firefighter Candidate and a Proby. If you are a future Firefighter Candidate for the FDNY, take advantage of the Mentorship Program and stay in contact with your Mentor. Staying on top of your studies and keeping in contact with your Mentor will help prepare you for what’s to come in the Academy and the rest of your career,” added Heydebrand, who works at Engine 260 in Queens.

If you missed it, read the story about this humanitarian effort today here. To learn more about the Firefighter Candidate Mentorship Program, click here.