ETC Car Wash Raises Funds In Memory Of Morgan Kitchen

Lakeland ETC students washing cars. Photo Sonya Lee

On Friday September 26 the parking lot outside the ETC program was transformed into a buzzing bubbly tribute to volunteer fire fighter hero Morgan Kitchen. Buckets hoses and plenty of elbow grease were the tools of the day as ETC students hosted a memorial car wash in honour of Kitchen a 24 year old firefighter who tragically lost his life on August 3, 2024 while battling wildfires in Jasper National Park.

Morgan a dedicated member of Alberta Wildfire and a volunteer firefighter with the Beiseker Fire Department was struck by a falling tree while working to contain a blaze. His passing sent shockwaves through both the firefighting community and his hometown. In the wake of the tragedy the Beiseker Fire Department established the Morgan Kitchen Memorial Award a scholarship supporting aspiring first responders and carrying on Morgan’s spirit of bravery and service.

Determined to do their part ETC students rolled up their sleeves grabbed the soap and got to work. For just ten dollars a wash or a generous donation, community members received a sparkling clean car and the warm satisfaction of supporting a noble cause. Some vehicles rolled in caked with dirt, others just needed a quick rinse but all drove away cleaner and touched by the heart behind the suds.

The event was not just about cars. It was about connection, compassion, and community, everything Morgan Kitchen stood for. The laughter, teamwork, and positive energy made it a fitting tribute to someone who gave so much.

The ETC raised over $ 1,500 from the event, going directly to the Morgan Kitchen Memorial Award, helping future first responders chase their dreams just like Morgan did.

If you would like to donate to the scholarship, contact the Beiseker Fire Department or the ETC program to learn more about contributing to Morgan Kitchen’s legacy.