OUR MISSION

About the Shaffer Family Foundation

Mission Statement

The Shaffer Family Foundation is dedicated to uniting the community to honor, support, and celebrate the vital contributions of our first responders. Through our annual Rally for Our First Responders, now in its 4th year, we bring people together to expand awareness of the critical roles first responders play in ensuring public safety, educate the community about their services and impact, and foster opportunities for recruitment to strengthen these essential professions. Additionally, through the Shaffer Family First Responder Scholarship Fund, we provide educational support to the children of first responders, ensuring their future success while expressing our gratitude for their families' sacrifices. Together, we strive to build a stronger, more connected community that recognizes and supports the heroes among us.

The Rally for Our First Responders

The Rally for Our First Responders is the Shaffer Family Foundation’s signature annual event, bringing together the community to celebrate, honor, and support Delaware’s first responders. Now entering its 5th year, the Rally has become a cornerstone event, attracting thousands of attendees and raising significant funds to benefit first responders across the state.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026 (Rain Date: Sunday, May 31, 2026)

• Location: Hudson Fields, Milton, DE

About the Event

The Rally for Our First Responders is a powerful day of excitement, unity, and heartfelt appreciation for the heroes who keep our communities safe. This family-friendly event brings thousands together to honor and support Delaware’s first responders, while raising crucial funds for the organizations and initiatives that serve them.

Event Highlights Include:

• Live Music & Entertainment – Featuring local bands and performers to keep the energy high all day

• K-9 Demonstrations – Watch highly trained K-9 units in action

• Fire Trucks & Police Vehicles on Display – Kids and adults alike can explore emergency vehicles up close

• Community Education & Recruitment Opportunities – First responders connect with the public to teach safety, raise awareness, and inspire the next generation

• Support for the Shaffer Family First Responder Scholarship Fund – Helping the children of first responders pursue their dreams

• A Massive Kids’ Zone – Obstacle courses, games, face painting, inflatables, and more

• Silent Auction – Bid on incredible gift baskets, products, and experiences donated by our generous local businesses and supporters

• 50/50 Raffle – Try your luck and support a great cause at the same time

• Rally Merchandise for Sale – Get your hands on exclusive t-shirts, hoodies, and more to show your support

This event is more than a festival — it’s a chance for our community to say “thank you” and to give back to those who serve on the front lines every day.

Beneficiaries of the Rally

The funds raised through the Rally directly benefit Delaware’s first responder organizations, providing critical resources to enhance their services and support their teams. Additionally, this year’s Rally will fund the newly established Shaffer Family First Responder Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships to the children of first responders pursuing higher education. This initiative underscores our commitment to not only supporting first responders today but also investing in the future of their families.

Join Us in Making a Difference

We invite you to join us in honoring Delaware’s first responders and supporting their incredible contributions to our communities. Whether you attend the Rally, become a sponsor, or make a donation, your involvement makes a tangible impact on these heroes and their families.

Stay connected with us by liking and sharing our Facebook page and visiting our website for updates:

• Facebook: Rally for Our First Responders