Guests at The University Club had the opportunity to hear from Jason Dougherty on May 6, as he delivered an engaging presentation on the vital work and far-reaching impact of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue.
Chief Dougherty gave attendees an inside look at the extensive operations of HCFR, sharing impressive figures that reflect the department’s role in protecting and serving the community. He highlighted that HCFR safeguards more than $147 billion in property, serves approximately 1.2 million residents and 80,000 businesses, and responds to nearly 135,000 calls annually throughout 909 square miles. With 1,380 team members across 47 fire stations, the department handles more than 350 calls per day, the majority of which are medical emergencies.
In addition to emergency response, Chief Dougherty spoke about the meaningful work of the HCFR Foundation and its commitment to supporting both first responders and the broader community. He highlighted initiatives such as peer support for firefighter mental health, the cadet academy for future leaders in public safety, emergency assistance for firefighters and their families, and community-focused projects benefiting children, foster care programs, and underserved youth.
Chief Dougherty closed by reinforcing HCFR’s mission of service beyond the fire station—supporting families, investing in future generations, and standing beside the community in times of greatest need. His presentation served as a meaningful reminder of the dedication, courage, and compassion that define Hillsborough County Fire Rescue.
Centre Club hosted Fire Chief Jason Dougherty
At this month’s Breakfast with an Executive hosted at Centre Club on May 12th, members welcomed Jason Dougherty, Fire Chief of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, for an engaging discussion on public safety, emergency response, and the department’s impact throughout Hillsborough County.
Chief Dougherty shared the remarkable scale of HCFR’s service, including protecting more than $147 billion in property, serving approximately 1.2 million residents, and supporting fire prevention and inspections for businesses across the county. He also walked through national response benchmarks and how the department’s team meets those standards to ensure fast, effective emergency response.
He also discussed HCFR’s $322 million budget and how that funding supports daily operations, emergency preparedness, and maintaining around-the-clock service for the community.
A meaningful part of the presentation focused on the HCFR Foundation and its mission to support firefighters, their families, and the broader community. Through the foundation, HCFR provides peer support resources for first responders, emergency assistance for firefighter families, and youth programs like the cadet academy that introduces local students to leadership and careers in public service. The foundation also gives back through community projects that support foster children, children battling cancer, and other vulnerable youth in the area.
Thank you to Chief Dougherty for sharing not only the operational side of fire rescue, but also the heart behind the organization’s service to the community.
