Honoring a Rockford Favorite with the FDC Community Hero Award

One of the greatest parts of our role as the official coffee of the National Hot Rod Association is the opportunity to honor Community Heroes at each race throughout the 2023 season.

In May, during the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals in the Chicago area, we had the absolute pleasure of honoring a hero who is close to our hearts. Shannon Kopp is a paramedic from the Rockford Fire Department in Illinois, where she worked alongside FDC founder Luke Schneider, as well as other members of the Fire Dept. Coffee team.

That gave us a first-hand look at the incredible service that Shannon has provided to her community for more than two decades. Her unwavering dedication and selfless commitment to the well-being of others made her a natural choice for our Community Hero Award. In fact, she’s been our hero for a long time.

A Lifetime of Service and Dedication

Shannon Kopp's journey as a paramedic began more than 20 years ago with the Rockford Fire Department. Throughout the years, she has held multiple positions, and her current role as a Mobile Integrated Health Paramedic highlights her commitment to advocating for individuals who may not have access to essential medical resources. 

Shannon's impact extends far beyond immediate medical assistance, as she plays a vital role in educating patients about managing their health issues and facilitating crucial support services.

Her tireless efforts have led to significant improvements in the lives of those she serves. She has been instrumental in developing programs that provide much-needed medical assistance to those who may struggle to access resources on their own. 

By coordinating home health assistance, scheduling doctor appointments and helping obtain essential medical equipment, Shannon ensures that people receive the care they need. Her compassionate and empathetic approach has also made her an advocate for those facing mental health challenges, and she’s played a pivotal role in improving their quality of life.

Addressing Public Health Concerns

In addition to her work in mobile integrated health, Shannon has been at the forefront of tackling public health issues in Rockford. She has been actively involved in training and education initiatives related to Narcan administration and overdose prevention, as the community battles the opioid epidemic. 

Shannon goes above and beyond by assisting individuals in accessing detox and rehabilitation programs, offering them a chance to turn their lives around. Her daily interactions with those she serves exemplify her exceptional character and dedication to public service. Her empathetic and compassionate approach is evident in every encounter, making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of individuals she assists. 

Shannon embodies the values of a true Community Hero, demonstrating that small acts of kindness and understanding can create profound change within a community.

Fire Dept. Coffee and the NHRA are honored to celebrate Shannon's achievements and recognize her as a shining example of compassion, empathy, and service to the community.