Deputy Fire Chief Tameji Berry of the Dallas Fire Department had a dream to help young girls in the community learn what it means to be a firefighter.
She wanted to give them insight into the male-dominated profession to help their career aspirations.
“They say, 'You’re a girl. ‘We didn’t know a lady or a girl could be a chief in the fire department,'” she said.
Berry's dream eventually became Camp LADDER.
“LADDER stands for Ladies Achieving Dreams With Dedication Enthusiasm and Respect,” she explained.
Beyond the burning buildings, the girls learn life lessons and how to be effective leaders. They learn the importance to teamwork and having a plan.
“Last night, we had a campfire and everyone went around talking about their fears and loves and what makes them who they are,” 14-year-old Alicia Williams said.
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The camp is made possible through a partnership with Dallas Independent School District and the Dallas Fire Department.
“The core of the program is to teach leadership skills and self-confidence,” Berry said.
Through a series of real-life firefighting exercises, the girls learn to reach for their dreams and push past their limits.
“I know it may be hard. They may not be used to this. Just trust me and keep moving forward, Williams said. "It’s a success at the end.”
Organizers are hopeful the girls will choose a life in firefighting, but simply want them to dream big.
