Hometown Hero: Colleen Cardile
Official Fire District Title: Harmony Fire Company Secretary

How long have you been a member of HTFD-23 and why did you join?

I have been a member of the company for 7 years. I really started coming around to spend more time with my husband. I learned more about the fire service and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. I love to help people. My first instinct is not to run, but to help and offer it to anyone who may need it. I originally started with a path to go to fire school, however, there are not enough hours in a day, and I volunteer in many other things. I decided to take on more of a “behind the scenes” role. I am the secretary of the company and help with events and on calls (when I can) in many other ways. What people don’t realize is that there is a way to become involved without needing to go to fire school, or have run into burning buildings (I will eventually get there). People are needed behind the scenes, working events and fundraisers and serving on the administrative side.

What is the best part about being part of HTFD-23?

It really is a family. No matter what is going on or how long you may have been out of things, the members step up for each other and help each other out on and off the fire grounds.

What do you do when you’re not fighting fires?

Well, I personally do not fight fires and have taken more of a role on the company side of things with attending meetings as the secretary and helping with events (you can help without fighting fires!). When I am not here, I am teaching, coaching HS sports, and coaching our local travel softball team, all while trying to be at most of our kids events as well.

Who would you say is the most influential person in your life and why?

My mom. She has always been there, and I have never had to ask her to be. She has always been my biggest supporter and my biggest cheerleader, even if she didn’t agree at times. She is strong and faced some tough times while I was growing up. With that, she showed me that it’s ok to fall-down, make mistakes…. But not to live there. Take your time to be sad or angry, get up, learn from it and keep it moving.

What is your favorite movie and why?

A League of Their Own – what’s not to love? A bunch of women KILLING it playing baseball…??? Oh, and there’s no crying in baseball!

There is movie about HTFD-23 – what actor would play you?

Brie Larson.

If you had 3 magic beans – what would you wish for?

1. Take away my student loans
2. More time
3. Everyone to just be kinder to one another