A new memorial foundation has been founded in honor of late Buffalo firefighter Jason Arno, who lost his life battling a fire at 745 Main St., in Buffalo's Theater District this past March. 

The Firefighter Arno Memorial (FAM) Foundation, founded by a group of Arno's family and close friends, "recognizes the first responder community’s immense contribution and is committed to celebrating their courage." Their mission is to provide resources, financial support and opportunities for Western New York first responders and their families by fundraising and increasing community awareness of their daily efforts.

The foundation has also announced the FAM Cookout & Volleyball Tournament, a celebration of Arno’s life and all WNY first responders on Sunday, Aug. 27 at Holidays Sportsbar and Volleyball. The event will feature live music from Nerds Gone Wild, beer tent, food from Chiavetta’s Chicken and a sand volleyball tournament, in addition to backyard games, raffle prizes and much more.

Tickets are pre-sale only with limited spots for volleyball teams.

To purchase tickets, donate, or learn more about Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation, visit www.FAMgives.org.