Fifteen Days of Hope

This campaign is more than a tribute — it’s a movement built on gratitude, compassion, and the power of community. Each day represents a step toward hope, resilience, and a stronger tomorrow for those who dedicate their lives to protecting ours.

These events not only commemorate the sacrifices of first responders and veterans but also strengthen community bonds through shared experiences and acts of service.

Anyone can take part in our Fifteen Days of Hope.

Your participation could be as big or as small as you would like.

  • Take your kids to tour a fire station

  • Drop off supplies or a meal to your local fire station

  • Host a lemonade stand or another fundraiser to donate to The 2650 Foundation

  • Something as simple as posting a photo in a 2650 shirt brings awareness and support to Austin's memory.

Every act of generosity makes a difference.

The 2650 Foundation will be supporting initiates all over town in honor of Austin Duran. If you would like to get involved and need our support, please reach out to us at the2650foundation@gmail.com

Fifteen Days of Hope was created in honor of the fifteen days that Austin was in the hospital — a period from June 30th to July 15th that forever changed our lives and reminded us of the incredible strength and generosity within our community. During those days, firefighters, first responders, and countless supporters stood by our side, offering help, encouragement, and hope when it was needed most.

In recognition of that outpouring of support, the 2650 Foundation launched 15 Days of Hope as an annual initiative to give back to the community and the firefighters who were there for us during those original fifteen days. Over the course of fifteen days, we come together to support local heroes and families in need through acts of kindness, fundraising, and service.

Highlights from recent years include:

  • The 2650 Foundation Honor Project: Volunteers placed American flags at the gravesites of every first responder and veteran at Highland Memory Gardens and Funeral Home in Apopka. This endeavor, which involved over 20,000 sites, serves as a powerful tribute to those who have served.

  • Apopka Fire Family Portrait Day: Sponsored by the Becker family, this event provided free professional family portraits to 30 fire families, celebrating their dedication and service.

  • Firehouse Reading Night: A family-friendly evening that included a tour of a fire station, storytelling, and quality time with local heroes, fostering a deeper connection between the community and first responders.

  • Stretch for Hope: A free yoga class hosted by former Apopka firefighter/paramedic Tre Flowers, promoting wellness and hope among participants.

  • The Annual 2650 Duran Workout: A fitness event hosted by the Oak Community honored Austin Duran, featuring a "Hero Workout" to celebrate his legacy and support the foundation's mission.

  • Do Good with Chipotle Fundraiser: 25% of event sales were donated to The 2650 Foundation.

  • Memorial Tribute with Til Vahalla Project: Presented custom built memorial plaques to the families of Connor Fernandez (SCFD) and Jeff Huggins (OFD).

  • Pack the Firehouse: Through donated supplies from the community, PityFitness has been able to facilitate a drive to donate supplies to all Apopka fire stations.

  • Feed Our Firefighters: All shifts at every Apopka fire station received a meal during the duration of Fifteen Days of Hope.

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