The Canyon Lake Firefighters Association (CLFA) has recently appointed Engineer/Paramedic Nathaniel “Nate” Garcia as its new president, marking a significant milestone in the association’s young history.
Formally established in July 2022, the CLFA was officially recognized by the State of California in August 2022 and established as a 501(c)3 in November 2022. On March 8, 2023, the City of Canyon Lake recognized the CLFA with a proclamation.
The CLFA is made up of all full-time firefighters of the Canyon Lake Fire Department. The board members are voted in by the membership. In its early leadership, Brennain Gorter served as president, with Cory Willis as vice president, Chico Sanchez as treasurer, and Chris Bratt as secretary. Garcia served as secretary during the first year. Since then, Garcia has assumed the top leadership role, signaling continuity and trust in his experience and dedication.
With Garcia at the helm, the CLFA is well-positioned to maintain effective representation, strengthen member benefits, and ensure high standards of departmental service to the community. Garcia is joined by Tim O’Marra, vice president; Chris Bratt, secretary; and Chico Sanchez, treasurer.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to serve in this capacity, working corporately to ensure continued success and a long future for the CLFA and the Canyon Lake Fire Department,” Garcia said.
Garcia brings a strong operational and leadership background to his new role. He has been with the Canyon Lake Fire Department since its inception in January 2022. As an engineer and paramedic, Garcia has played an active role in departmental efforts and public engagements.
Garcia grew up in the Inland Empire, where he currently resides. Prior to joining the Canyon Lake Fire Department, Garcia spent two years as a firefighter/paramedic with the Morongo Valley Fire Department and five years as a volunteer firefighter with the Angwin Fire Department.
Garcia has 10 years of paramedic experience, having worked for the Glendale Fire Department and AMR in San Bernardino County. He is also a certified EMS instructor through the National Association of EMS Educators, and holds two associate’s degrees and a bachelor’s degree.
Garcia’s honors include Firefighter of the Year for both the Angwin Fire Department and the Morongo Valley Fire Department.
The CLFA represents the firefighters of the Canyon Lake Fire Department and to ensure that current and future members continue to be a part of the community through sponsored events, community involvement, and public relations. Its goal is to keep its members healthy and safe by providing a high-quality working environment and to provide stability for the future of the Canyon Lake Fire Department.
The vision of the CLFA is to work closely within the community, ensuring the continued support and endearment of the citizens and visitors, while prioritizing the members’ health and protection through competitive wages, benefits, and working conditions.
The CLFA is active in the community it serves, hosting the annual Golf Cart Show and donating to community clubs and organizations, including the Little League, Community Theatre Group, Mermaids of Canyon Lake, and National Day of Prayer.
