NEWARK - The Vulcan Pioneers of New Jersey — an organization of Black firefighters committed to service, education and empowerment — are raising funds to erect the Wayne Bear Brooks Community in Newark.

This center – planned to be built at 124 Lyons Ave. in Newark – would serve as a hub for youth mentorship, fire service training, job readiness programs and community outreach initiatives.

Founded in 1957, the Vulcan Pioneers of New Jersey is a group of Black professional firefighters who came together to address the underrepresentation of Black firefighters in Newark, and fight for fair treatment within the department, equitable hiring practices, promotions and access to leadership roles.

The Vulcan Pioneers of New Jersey currently does not operate out of a building in Newark, as the c

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