When most third graders are thinking about recess or homework, Abbott Lutz is thinking about how to help his local fire department.

Abbott, 9, of Dushore, is known around the Dushore Fire Co. as “Captain Abbott,” an honorary title he was awarded in recognition of his unwavering support for the department.

Now, he’s taking his commitment to the next level.

When Abbott learned that the department is preparing to replace its 23-year-old Aerial Ladder

Truck, he quickly volunteered to lead the fundraising effort. A replacement truck is estimated to cost nearly one million dollars.

Abbott’s hobby is creating handmade wood crafts and laser engraved items. He regularly sets up at local fairs and markets, where he sells his creations. Abbott has donated both proceeds and items to over a dozen charitable organizations to help with fundraising efforts throughout the community.

In January, Abbott presented Fire Chief John Yonkin with a check for more than $500 to kick off the Ladder Truck Fundraising Campaign.

With a smile, Abbott told Yonkin that he “only needs to sell about 72,000 more earrings or key chains” to fully fund the new truck.

The Dushore Fire Company’s Aerial Ladder Truck plays a critical role in emergency response, providing elevated rescue capabilities, ventilation, and fire suppression for structures throughout the community and neighboring municipalities.

Replacing the aging apparatus is essential to ensuring the safety of both residents and firefighters.

Yonkin explains, “The cost of purchasing a brand-new Aerial Ladder Truck would be at least $2.8 million. That option is not our first choice. Instead, we are actively seeking a well-maintained used truck with low mileage and operating hours, ideally in the $1 million price range. Even at that reduced cost, this will represent a significant fundraising challenge for our department and our community.”

Abbott will serve as the official youth spokesperson for the department’s Ladder Truck Fundraising Program.

His enthusiasm, creativity, and generosity are already inspiring the community to get involved.

Abbott is the son of Nicholas and Nicole Lutz, also members of the Dushore Fire Company.

Community members who would like to support the Ladder Truck Fund are encouraged to contact the Dushore Fire Company or watch for upcoming fundraising events.

As Captain Abbott proves, you’re never too young to make a big difference.