The 32nd class of the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Fire Academy is organizing a benefit dinner to support Lt. Stephen Dale and firefighter Rachel Dale, both first responders serving Rowan County communities.

All proceeds from the Firefighter Benefit Feast will go to the Dale family, whose daughter was delivered prematurely because of medical complications, which endangered the child. Their daughter was released from a neonatal intensive care unit, but the Dales continue to face medical complications and hardships.

Leaders in the community have rallied behind the cause to support the Dale family.

“Stephen and Rachel are both hard-working servants of the community,” says the Rev. Kate Morrison of John Calvin Presbyterian Church. “They would be there for us when we need them most, so I think it’s important we be there for them when they need us most.”

The benefit dinner will feature a meal donated by Executive Chef Daniel Tunks of Morgan Ridge Railwalk Brewery.

“I’ve always looked up to firefighters for the things they do. It’s great to have a chance to give a little back to them,” says Tunks.

The Firefighter Benefit Feast will be on from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday in the apparatus bay of Locke Township Fire Department, 5404 Mooresville Road. The cost is $7 per plate at the door, but further donations are encouraged.

Entertainment will include a tactical skills demonstration by the Fire Academy, tours of the Locke Fire Department and apparatus, and a silent auction featuring first responder-themed items. Free parking is available in the nonemergency lot on the west side of the building.

Plates will be first come, first serve.