As a lieutenant of the East Peoria Fire Department, Ryan Beck is responsible for all fire and rescue calls during his shift, overseeing all firefighters assigned to his shift, and for shift training and equipment. In addition, he is in charge of the Children’s Car Seat Program, which assists citizens in proper child seat installation and use. This program has been especially well attended under Beck’s direction.
Beck is a member of the training committee at the East Peoria Fire Department, aiding in the decisions of appropriate training and setting standards for members to follow. He has also been recognized with technician status as part of the statewide Weapons of Mass Destruction Response Team in the areas of confined space rescue, rope rescue, structural collapse and trench rescue.
In addition to his professional duties, Beck serves the community at large, most notably through St. Jude Runs. He is a co-leader of the St. Jude Memphis to Peoria Run, taking on additional responsibilities each year of his involvement. He was selected to be a member of the 10-person training team for the first annual Memphis to Mobile, Alabama St. Jude Run, offering more than a week of his personal time to support, mentor and lead this new event from start to finish.
Beck’s drive for helping St. Jude doesn’t end with the organization’s runs. He helps to coordinate the Morton Road Race each year, and created, coordinated and performed at UPLIFTED, a Christian music experience that highlights the remarkable work of his favorite charity.
Beck was named the 2010 St. Jude Memphis to Peoria Runner of the Year; his drive to grow and enhance the organization made him an obvious choice for this award. He has also been recognized on several occasions by the East Peoria Fire Department for his work and dedication to duty.
An active member of the Crossroads Community Church in Washington, Illinois, Beck occasionally leads the vocal component of its services. Quick to share his talents, he also teaches voice lessons to students at Metamora High School.
Viewed as a leader by his peers and supervisors, Beck excels at his professional duties and is passionate in his service to the community, all while striving to be a loving husband and father. iBi