The Humboldt Fire Department, the Humboldt and District EMS plus the local RCMP took the night off Saturday to raise funds for various charity groups across the area.

The three organizations gather every year, along with the general public for a night of socializing, dancing and usually a live band.

HFD Chief Mike Kwasnica said that the partnerships date back 11 years to when they combined their current fundraisers and invited the EMS crew along leading to thousands of dollars being raised over the decade. 

"I couldn't even tell you all the things we've actually donated too, we should of kept a better list," he chuckled ahead of the event where all the members had photos taken by a professional at the Uniplex. "Numerous different events, last year was different, we spread it out over four or five different organizations instead of one lump sum."

In January this year the group, known as the Humboldt Emergency Relief Organization provided over $13,000 to a LeRoy family to help cover medical expenses a little boy's medical costs.

Kwasnica admitted they never really saw the event as a money maker but they are overjoyed it's become something they can use to give back.

"It never really started off as a fundraiser, it more basically started off as our award night and recognition night and it turned into a really good fundraiser. We're doing upwards around between $8,000-$10,000 a year in fundraising and it all goes back to the community."

The awards do still exist too, this year a number of members will be honoured.

"We recognize five, 10, 15, 20, 25 and we do have one member that's 42 years so we try to recognize them along the way."

Kwasnica says they have no plans as of yet for this year's funds but in the end, it will help create a better financial position for a number of future recipients, possibly becoming a hero to them.

You can hear more form Kwasnica below, he joined Bolt FM's Clark Stork prior to the gala.