From the President

Hermanas y Hermanos,

As I reflect back on 2007 I am extremely proud of the accomplishments we have achieved. From coast to coast and border to border, our membership has continued to grow as we have systematically strengthened our relationships and created new partnerships.

As we witnessed in September, our 2007 NAHF International Training Conference in Dallas, TX was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. We returned to the birthplace of the NAHF; bigger and better than ever. The Dallas Hispanic Firefighters Assoc, Dallas Fire and Rescue, and Dallas Fire Fighters Local 58, rolled out the red carpet and hosted a first class event. Participants included, IAFF Gen Pres Harold Schaitberger, IAFC President Steven P. Westermann, Head of US Fire Administration Gregory B. Cade, and Retired IAFF Executive Board Member Ernest A. "Buddy" Mass.

Our 2008 Executive Board is as solid as ever with our newly elected officers: Eastern Region VP Manuel Fonseca (Nashville TN), Central Region VP Roland Chavez (Houston TX), Treasurer Randy Moreno (Austin TX), and Secretary Larry Contreras (Phoenix AZ). I'm confident we will continue to exemplify our tradition of commitment, professionalism, and dedication to our departments, communities, partners, and especially our fellow brothers and sisters.

Although I am proud of our accomplishments, we still face a long road ahead of us. Representation of diversity in the fire service remains dismal, service to non-English speaking communities continues to be a major challenge for emergency responders, which means Fire Departments and institutions throughout the country will continue to come to us for assistance. We must continue our effort of providing solutions to the challenges of recruitment and assist Fire Departments and institutions like the National Fire Academy in Managing Inclusion. This must be done while balancing the need to influence a higher degree of shared accountability and commitment moving forward.

This year, we must include a full evaluation of our strategic partnerships which will include providing clear expectations. We have now reached a critical milestone in national credibility to warrant attention to our shared vision. Managing change requires a shift in mindset and a shift in how we approach and behave. The following is a summary of areas we will discuss this year as opportunities:

• NAHF 1-year and 3-year Strategy
• Full evaluation of our strategic partnerships, which will include a scorecard grade and 3-year plan with clear expectations
• Review National Communication Strategy
• National Membership drive with goals and objectives for each region

Together there is nothing we cannot accomplish. The work we do is for all and we must model Managing Inclusion before we ask that of others.

In Community Spirit,
Alberto N. Olmos
President, National Association Hispanic Firefighters