How can I help? For more than 20 years Captain Doug Raines has asked that question and made a lasting impact on our community. In October 2017 he was honored for his efforts, being named one of the 2017 Beyond the Best, which recognizes 50 top local business and community members.
Raines’ ongoing commitment to the community goes beyond being an emergency responder. Nearly 20 years ago he established the first Child Safety Seat Program in St. Charles County through CCFR. This program eventually transformed into the St. Charles County Safe-Kids Coalition. He took the initiative to apply for and receive multiple grants that enabled the purchase and distribution of free child safety seats and bike helmets throughout the community. The coalition continued to grow taking in Lincoln and Warren counties.
In 2000, he initiated the annual effort to adopt a local family for the holidays providing food, gifts and other necessities that were needed. Not only did he raise the funds, but also personally shopped and prepared the items for delivery to each of the families. After many years of his effort, the program eventually evolved into the Central County Community Outreach Program, which has gone on to raise money and provide support to community organizations and local residents in need.
In 2012, after a CCFR firefighter was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the young age of 28, he began working with the local MS society to help find a cure. The first step was a 24-hour walk-a-thon in front of the fire station #1 that raised more than $26,000. In 2015, he was named the St. Charles Walk Coordinator for the St. Louis MS Society hosting the annual MS Walk at Ft. Zumwalt East High School.
Most recently, he built a partnership with the St. Charles County Library District to become a sight for the Little Library Program. He built and installed the Little Library at CCFR Station #3 on Willott Road in St. Peters.
Outside of organizing fundraising events and developing safety programs, Raines has often been seen helping out with random acts of kindness – proving groceries for those in need, helping stranded motorists or lending a hand to someone in need.
“Doug never looks for acknowledgment but is quick to praise and honor others for their efforts. His constant desire to help those in need has been the benchmark within the CCFR family for which we strive to achieve each and every day,” says Chief Dan Aubuchon.