NATIONAL SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE
Call or Text 988
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What We Do
Whether you're facing a personal struggle, grappling with a tough call, or need someone to talk to, the Local 2928/Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Chaplaincy Team is here to help. We are not counselors or therapists; we are fellow servants walking alongside you, offering encouragement, prayer, and a listening ear when needed.
Who We Are
Our mission is simple: to show God's love through the ministry of presence. As image-bearers of God's love, we seek to reflect His care, compassion, and strength in every interaction?not just in times of hardship but in moments of joy as well.
Who We Represent
The Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Chaplaincy Program exists to support our firefighters and their families by addressing the spiritual side of wellness. We represent the employees, retirees, and their families of six fire departments in Palm Beach County, FL.
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I'm Brian Boggio, and I've been blessed with an incredible wife of 16 years and three amazing boys (12, 10, and 6). Family means everything to me, and so does my faith. I've been a Christian since I was 14 when the Lord opened my eyes and heart to know Him truly. That moment changed my life; I've been walking with Him ever since.
I currently serve in the 4th Battalion as a Captain, and over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how tough this job can be. Being a firefighter comes with a lot of weight—physically, mentally, and emotionally. That’s why I got involved in chaplaincy. I know life can be hard, and I want my brothers and sisters to understand that it’s okay to not be okay—just don’t stay there. There’s hope, healing, and strength in Christ if you’re willing to let Him in.
Outside of work, my wife and I are plugged into our local church, and we open our home every week for Bible study. We also homeschool our boys, striving to build their education on a strong foundation of faith, character, and wisdom. I believe Christ tears down walls and can change lives, so why not share that good news with those around me? At the end of the day, I want to serve, love others well, and point people to the One who changed everything for me.
561-665-0941 |
Hello, my name is Josh Autwell, I'm happily married for over 17 years to my wife Caitlin. We have two teenage daughters, who have been homeschooling for seven years. Life is chock full of ups and downs, marriage and parenting are challenging themselves, especially with added care and pressures of life (firefighting). I can say our lives have been sustained by our loving father and savior Jesus Christ. We believe that through Christ God has given us everything for abundant life through his peace and wonderful promises that we cling to in faith. I believe Christ heals the sick and broken hearted. Our heavenly father is fully made manifest in our savior Jesus Christ.
561-313-1582 |
My name is Jeremy Chafin. Born at St Mary's Medical Center, I have lived most of my life in Martin County, where I currently reside. I am blessed to be married to my wife, Sarah, and we have four children, Ava, Olivia, Logan, and Amelia. In my free time I enjoy coaching my kids' sports teams, traveling the country in our RV, and being outdoors.
I have worked for PBCFR for the past 11 years as a Firefighter, Driver Operator, and Lieutenant, with the majority of my time in Battalion 7. My faith in Jesus Christ is the most important part of my life. It has helped me through challenges and grief and is my source of joy and peace. I am happy to be a part of the Chaplain Program and to serve others in this capacity.
772-485-2293 |
My name is Robert Wood, and I'm honored to be part of the chaplaincy team. I joined this team because I have a genuine passion for supporting others spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. I believe that faith and compassion can be powerful sources of healing and hope, and I want to be a presence of encouragement for those going through difficult or meaningful times. Whether it's offering a listening ear, a prayer, or simply being there, I see chaplaincy as a way to serve others with compassion and empathy. This role allows me to live out my values while walking alongside people in their journeys, whatever they may be facing.
561-281-8244 |
My name is Dustin Atha. I currently work at station 73 on the A shift. I have an amazing wife, a full-of-life little boy named Cooper, and a baby girl on the way. My faith and family are my everything. My wife actually brought me to the lord by inviting me to attend church with her and her father. I truly believe that without this happening my life would look way different. Having a relationship with the Lord has helped me through some extremely difficult times but has also helped me rejoice in many glorious moments.
I'm extremely passionate about our job and make it my mission to pour into our new employees to ensure they are as ready for the job as possible.
As we all know, this job has many challenges unique to being a first responder. We see things that are undoubtedly hard to deal with. It's easy to say, "It's part of the job," but it's important to remember that we are all humans and should be there for one another when something is bothering someone.
That is what I want to do through the chaplaincy. Be there for our brothers and sisters.
352-817-9692 |
"Iron Sharpens Iron" - Proverbs 27:17
There's no sinner he can't save, read that again...you are loved.
My calling is to serve those who serve. I'm here for my brothers and sisters in the field-not with all the answers, but with a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and faith grounded in Jesus Christ.
This chaplaincy is about more than just prayer-it's about presence. It's about walking with you through the stress, the struggle, the questions, and the quiet moments. Whether you're carrying something heavy or just need someone to talk to, you're never alone.
We believe in real conversations, unshakable hope, and the power of community. We sharpen each other, we lift each other, and we grow stronger-together through Christ.
You don't have to be perfect. You just have to show up. I'll be here when you do.
954-647-7883 |
Amanda Vomero has dedicated 24 years to the fire service, bringing compassion and strength to her role as a District Chief. She has been happily married for 20 years to her husband, Frank. They are proud parents to three wonderful, healthy children. She balances her demanding career with a strong Christian faith that guides her life and leadership. Serving as an assistant chaplain, offering guidance and support to those navigating difficult times. Her deep sense of service and faith inspires her work both on and off the job.
561-248-3399 |
My name is Michael Bean, I was born in Texas but have lived in Palm Beach County most of my life. I have an amazing wife and two young children. I have been a firefighter since 2018. As a husband and father of two, I understand the weight of responsibility and the challenges that come with this calling. Firefighting is more than just a career - it is a brotherhood, one that faces not only physical dangers but emotional and spiritual battles as well. Through my own walk with Christ, I have come to see how vital faith is in sustaining us through the trials of this life. In 2022, my life changed forever - I was saved from my sin by the grace of God. Since then my greatest desire has been to share the Gospel message - Every person has sinned against God, is separated from Him because of sin, and deserves hell. However, Jesus Christ paid the penalty for sinners through His death on the cross. Through faith alone in Jesus Christ, we can be reconciled to God and receive forgiveness and eternal life. I feel called to serve as a chaplain for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue because I know the burdens that firefighters carry. I want to be there to offer encouragement, prayer, and the hope that can only be found in Jesus alone. My desire is to come alongside my brothers and sisters in the fire service, pointing them to the One who gives true peace and rest.
561-251-8164 |
My name is Matthew Mierzwa III. My wife, Jennilee, and I met in college at Florida State University. Jennilee is an elementary school teacher with the School District of Palm Beach County. We have been married for 18 years. We have four children, Matthew (16), Lucas (14), Anna (12), and James (9). I was raised in the Catholic Faith by my parents. My family and I are active parishioners at St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church in Wellington. I have almost 19 years in the fire service with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. I have served most of my career in the Tenth Battalion. My career has consisted of nine years as a Firefighter/Paramedic, six years as a Driver Operator, and currently a Lieutenant at Station 23, A-shift. I have always relied on the belief that God has a plan for us all. I look to His guidance from the Catholic/Christian perspective in which I was raised, in my personal life, as well as when I respond to emergency calls. I decided to seek out the Chaplaincy to extend my reach and offer my presence and support to my brothers and sisters in the fire service in their time of need.
561-602-4006 |
I was born in Chicago in the late 1970's. Like so many of that generation I grew up in a split home living sometimes in Orlando do with my mother and and some years with my father in Chicago. After graduating high School in Orlando I joined the USAF where I became a fire fighter and hazmat technician. I spent 5 years in the military and have lived in Montana, the UK, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. After my military service I returned to Florida and entered the civilian fire service with the City of Maitland FD before ultimately being blessed to land at PBCFR. Since my hiring in 2005 I have served in Battalion 3, 10, 1, and 8. I have been blessed to find a place on the team at MIH as well as recently joining the ranks of the chaplaincy program. My family and I have been attending Christ Fellowship Stuart Campus for the past fifteen years. My personal interests are reading, history, and helping people. It is my intent to finish my career here at PBCFR and then go into teaching. I consider it a great honor to be considered for the chaplaincy program.
772-708-4006 |
My name is Garfield Hamilton, Firefighter EMT and Registered Nurse. I started my career in the fire service in 2005 and I have served in Battalion 7, Battalion 5 and I am presently at Battalion 8. I love the lord and I am very passionate about my relationship with him. I am a local Pastor in Palm beach County and a Chaplain with Florida Theological Chaplaincy since 2009,I have done a lot of community work in Broward and Palm Beach County and actively participate in the Angel Tree and Prison fellowship each year. I completed my Basic Chaplaincy Training with the Department in 2012 but have recently become more active under the new leadership. I have a Masters Degree in Theology and have completed training in Basic Counselling, Pastoral crisis intervention and several other ISCIF classes. I love my brothers and sisters in the fire service and am very happy to serve you as I serve the lord.
561-506-0832 |
Rabbi Ira Brawer was raised in an observant Jewish home, attended an Orthodox synagogue and Yeshiva, while growing up in New York City. Although he fell away from Judaism as a teenager, he came to believe in Yeshua (Jesus) as the Messiah and returned to Judaism as a Messianic Jew in 1984.
He was ordained by the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations in 1991 after completing training in the UMJC Yeshiva Institute. He also holds a BA from Colorado Christian University.
In 1990, responding to the call of God, Ira and his family moved from Colorado to south Florida to start the congregation Shalom Boca (formerly Ayts Chayim).
Rabbi Ira lives in Boca Raton with his wife Gloria. They are also trained in an inner healing ministry called Restoring the Foundations (RTF) which uses an integrated approach to spiritual freedom and healing. There hearts are committed to helping God?s people reach their destiny and purpose in His Kingdom and to see the Jewish people of Boca Raton know the love of Yeshua. They have 5 grown children and 10 grandchildren. Feel free to reach out to Rabbi Ira with any questions you may have.
561-306-0116 |
My name is Angel Figueroa, and I have been working for Fire Rescue for 9 years and for the county for 29 years. I am 55 years old, married, and have 3 kids and 1 step son. I grew up Catholic and going to Catholic school in Brooklyn N.Y. I always knew about God, but never had a personal relationship with Him. In 2003 I gave my life to Christ and started going to a Christian church called Christ Fellowship. Through the church I became involved in men's ministry which involved men's retreats, outreach, & men's bible study. I am currently a part of Faithful Followers Ministry. We do a lot of men's, women's, & marriage retreats & conferences. I attend a small church called Connecting the World Ministries and both my wife and I are chaplains with the city of Riviera Beach. At work we hold bible study every other Thursday at lunch time for the people within Support Services, but anyone can come. I also hold men's study at my house on Friday nights.
I like being a chaplain with Fire Rescue and being of service to our Fire Fighters and look forward to being more of service within our department in whatever capacity that may be.
561-847-6092 |
I was born and raised in the Catholic faith and still attend church on a weekly basis. I currently attend a biweekly bible study with one of my firefighter chaplain peers at the central shop. I have a heart to serve and feel called to be an Ambassador of Christ, and work to proclaim his love, forgiveness, and reconciliation to all around me. It’s important for me to love people without judgment or condemnation. Faith comes from the Lord and is not forced on someone. You plant seeds and allow the Lord to draw them closer.
I’m married with no children. I have two German Shepherds and love my dogs deeply. My wife and I both attend a non-denominational church, and are more focused on relationships with the lord and not so focused on “Catholic faith and practices”. We also attend a Christian-based marriage support group and have learned much about each other and our faith.
I like bike riding, working on house projects, and spending time with my wife and pups in my spare time.
561-644-5302 |
I’m Mervyn Martin McIntosh. I was born in England but migrated with my parents to Jamaica, where I spent most of my younger years. I came to the United States when I was ten years old. I majored in Automotive Mechanics and later joined the United States Navy, where I worked on Diesel boats and generators. I have been working for Palm Beach Fire Rescue as an Apparatus Technician 2 since 2002.
I’ve been married to my wife Affette since 1988, and I have twin girls and a son who is now a firefighter/paramedic for the city of West Palm. I’m a Christian and attend Word of Hope New Testament Church of God. I serve as an usher and am very active in the men’s ministry. My love and compassion for people inspired me to join the chaplaincy team. I’m proud to be a part of the team and excited to see the work the Lord is doing for our people through this group.
In my free time, I enjoy traveling and have been blessed to travel to 38 countries and counting.
561-758-8716 |
Raised in Staten Island, NY and moved to Sunrise Florida in 1979 where I graduated from Piper High School (1983). I enlisted for six years in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the Flag Ship for 6th Fleet, 3rd Fleet, and Commander Joint Task Force Middle-East (USS Coronado AGF-11, 1983-1989). I am the son of a retired FDNY firefighter, Joseph R. Muller, L-122 Park Slope Brooklyn.
I began my career in firefighting with Davie Fire-Rescue in 1994 and retired after 25 years as a Paramedic and Dive/TRT Special Ops Captain at Station 104. In 1998, I moved to Wellington with my wife Teresa and two children where I commuted to Davie each shift. During my tenure at Davie, I was appointed as the department?s first Chaplain Liaison and helped to establish the department?s first PEER Support and Chaplaincy programs.
Upon entering the DROP program, I also entered the Regional Seminary of St. Vincent De Paul in Boynton Beach. In 2019, after 5 years of study, I was ordained Reverend Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Palm Beach County and finished the DROP that same year. I have worked closely with PBCFR since 2019 while it?s chaplaincy program was being reestablished and reformed. I am highly honored to offer my personal experiences and Spiritual counseling as a PBCFR Chaplain and as a member of the clergy to the community that we serve.
561-644-2553 |
Born and raised outside of a faith-based household, my journey with God began when a friend invited me to church. What started as a simple invitation quickly became a turning point that changed the course of my life. In that sacred space, I encountered the presence of God for the first time, and my heart began to awaken to His love, truth, and grace.
In the years since that moment, I have come to know Jesus Christ not just as my Savior, but as the cornerstone of my life. Through baptism, I publicly declared my commitment to follow Him, and He has remained faithful through every season—guiding me through obstacles, deepening my faith during times of change, and continually drawing me closer to His purpose.
Today, I have the honor of serving as a worship leader at Christ Fellowship Church, using my voice and heart to lift up the name of Jesus and help others encounter His presence. Worship is not only a ministry, but a reflection of the personal relationship I have with God—one marked by reverence, gratitude, and surrender.
God is the firm foundation of my life and the center of my family. In all that I do, I strive to honor Him—trusting in His Word, walking by faith, and seeking to be a vessel of His love and light in the world. My relationship with God continues to grow as I learn more of His character and experience His faithfulness in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life.
My story is a testimony of grace—a reminder that God can meet us wherever we are, and transform a single invitation into a lifelong calling.
561-729-6642
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My name is Jorge Cardoso. I am a Captain in Battalion 1 on L15/C-shift. I am in my 23rd year with PBCFR, Class 35. I have been married to my wife, Tara, for 25 years. I am a dad of 3 beautiful daughters, Keira (18), who loves dancing, graduated from high school, and will attend FSU—Brielle (16), who loves softball and weightlifting. Mila (12) loves sports, specifically volleyball and softball. My family is everything to me; they are the reason I wake up every morning and strive to be the best husband, father, and human I can be. In my free time, you can find me on a softball field somewhere, coaching and mentoring the next generation of female athletes. I also enjoy traveling anywhere Tara and my girls choose to explore. Religiously, I was raised in the Catholic Faith. I attend church the best that I can. I believe God has a plan for all of us here on Earth. As firefighters, we need to find balance physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Philippians 4:13
561-312-4077 |
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Page Last Updated: Apr 18, 2025 (10:30:47)
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