Arkansas Volunteer Spotlight: Caleb Freeborn

End Overdose's work in Arkansas is made possible by volunteers working tirelessly across the state. Some of them are training attendees at festivals on how to respond to an overdose, while others are packing naloxone kits in our office well into the evening hours. We want to shine a light on the people whose efforts make our resources free and accessible to all, so we’re excited to share our Arkansas Volunteer of the Week: Caleb Freeborn!

Caleb is a firefighter/paramedic who works for the city of Rogers, Arkansas, and volunteers for a rural department in his spare time. He's not only dedicated to saving lives through his career, but also through volunteering with End Overdose.

We spoke with Caleb about his background and efforts for our nonprofit – read the full interview below!

Can you tell us about yourself and your story?

I am a firefighter/paramedic. I started my career at 18-years-old and am still going strong at the age of 24 (almost 25). I spend every single day in a a firehouse as I am also the live-in firefighter for a rural volunteer department. I spend my working days for the city of Rogers FD and my off time is volunteered and dedicated to the residents of Benton County. I have six sisters, a beautiful pit bull named Katana (after the sword – not the Mortal Kombat character), my favorite color is purple, and I was born on Valentine’s Day. 

What inspired you to volunteer for End Overdose?

What inspired me to volunteer for End Overdose is the huge heart and enthusiasm carried by Sierra Jeans. She’s the coordinator for Arkansas and frankly my bestest friend. Watching her outward expression and passion for the being that is End Overdose is empowering and inspiring. Additionally, I have been told I have the gift of gab and was specifically requested to become involved and use my voice and charisma for a cause.

What’re your favorite memories of volunteering with End Overdose?

My favorite memory while volunteering with End Overdose was getting to use the neon sign for a little event in an indoor music hall. The sign was comically bright for the dimly lit venue and everyone loved it. It brought a lot of attention to us and worked out so well! Curious minds were like moths to a flame and it was amazing to have such a large turnout in our trainings and doses distributed in contrast to what would be considered a small event with low foot traffic. For real, the sign is bright and pretty. It’s a vibe.

What do you hope to see for the future of End Overdose in Arkansas?

I’d like to become even more involved. I have several irons in the fire so to say and get pulled multiple directions often, so my involvement in an additional volunteer organization is sporadic, but I do what I can when I can and I love it! I’d like to continue being and/or becoming an even better liaison between fire departments/public servants in the state of Arkansas and EO (as well as Northwest Arkansas places, peoples, and programs). I’d like my home to be strong in breaking the stigma, becoming educated and proactive in taking care of other people, and to establish EO as a household name.