The Relief Association Board of Trustees is pleased to welcome its two newest members – Jim Duffy and Gayle Sonoda.
Arson Investigator Jim Duffy brings a wealth of knowledge to the LAFRA Board of Trustees. He graduated from Cal in 2002 with a B.A. in Poli Sci and Business Administration. He is currently enrolled at Cal State Long Beach where he is working on his M.S. in Emergency Services Administration. He also attended the LAFD’s Leadership Academy and was elected the Class Leader of Class 14-2.
When not studying or investigating fires, Duff works as a Fire Captain for the La Habra Heights Fire Department. He has been married to Katy for more than three years, who he calls a “Saint” for putting up with his work and study schedule. They have an infant daughter, Regan Elizabeth, who is the light of his life.
When not at school, the firehouse or toiling in the LAFRA board room, Duff says, “you will not be able to find me, as the fam and I will be off the grid camping, hiking, and searching for swimming holes.”
Gayle Sonoda is LAFRA’s first-ever female Trustee. She joined the LAFD in 2008 and worked as a firefighter assigned to Fire Station 57 for five years. Later she earned a Paramedic Certification and then promoted to Inspector I shortly after. Currently, she is assigned to the Community Risk Reduction Unit in the Community Liaison Office.
Gayle earned a bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine and played basketball at Chapman University. She continues to share her passion for injury prevention, and strength and conditioning through the Candidate Assistance Program.
During a co-worker’s recent battle with cancer, she saw first-hand the significant support provided to our member and his family by the Relief Association. This incident gave her a real understanding of the important role the Relief plays in the lives of firefighters.
“In every aspect of my life I find myself helping others, continuing to learn, meeting new people, and enjoying every moment.”
We’re proud to have these two new and dedicated Board members available to help the Relief continue to provide invaluable service and assistance to all of our members.