Fifteen Days of Hope

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

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

  • Take your kids to tour a fire station

  • Drop off cookies, couple cases of water, or a meal to your local fire station

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

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

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 the2650foundation@gmail.com

The 2650 Foundation is proud to announce our 2nd annual Fifteen Days of Hope in memory of Firefighter Austin Duran.

As we enter the summer, this year marks 3 years since Austin's death. Between June 30th and July 15th of 2022, the City of Apopka surrounded the Duran family and The Apopka Fire Department with so much support in so many different ways. From the churches that ensured every station had meals provided, little ones hosting lemonade stands, local businesses hosting fundraisers, the Apopka community truly showed how unified we can be.

The 15 Days of Hope encompasses a series of community events and service projects aimed at fostering unity and expressing gratitude.

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 Second Annual 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.