I'm sure many of you in the U.S. and even folks in other countries have seen recent coverage of the Waldo Canyon Fire near Colorado Springs, Colorado. It is just one of multiple fires that have ravaged our state this summer, although the Waldo Canyon Fire has been declared the worst in state history. According to the Pikes Peak United Way, 32,500+ people were displaced, 20,085 residences and 160 commercial structures were threatened (including my own home),17,827 acres have been burned (which I can see from my home), 346 homes destroyed, and 2 related fatalities.

• My public forum thread
• A link to amazing footage of firefighters trying to keep homes from burning

This swap is your chance to thank a firefighter - in Colorado or anywhere! Here's what to do:

I am basing this swap somewhat on @MichelleWillow 's recent Thank You Swap Bot swap. :) You will be sending 2 postcards. The postcards can be store bought, handmade, or thoughtful ad cards.

• Send 1 postcard to your assigned partner. Share a thought about firefighters - maybe a personal experience, a family member or friend who's a firefighter, or just your own gratitude. Make sure to include your username and the swap name on the postcard. This is how you will be rated.
• Send another postcard to a firefighting agency. Thank the agency for its work to keep citizens and property safe.
• When you receive a postcard from your partner, you will rate a 5. You can post a comment here below the swap detailing who you sent your other postcard too. Maybe even link to a photo or their website!

If you don't know who to thank, or you would like to help me thank my local firefighters, here are some worthy organizations. Click on the links to find their addresses:

♥ Jerri Marr (the woman in the photo) is a member of the local forest service who has become my personal hero during these trying times. Here is her work mailing address.

♥ The Manitou Springs Fire Department

♥ The City of Colorado Springs Fire Department

♥ The El Paso County Wildland Fire Crew (EPSOWF)

♥ The Pikes Peak Firefighter's Association (PPFFA)

♥♥♥ Use PayPal to Donate to the Pikes Peak United Way! Making a donation is NOT part of this swap, but every little bit helps - even a dollar.

♥♥♥ Swap image from Card Gnome, who's selling these cards and other firefighter thank-you designs.

THANK YOU for joining my swap!