Alvarez helps Brillion FD with translations

Dec. 19, 2019

By David Nordby

The Brillion News

BRILLION – When a fire broke out in the Brillion mobile home park this past spring, Jacqueline Alvarez was ready to help.

“I was outside when the fire was happening. I knew the family didn’t speak much English and I didn’t see their kids around to help. So, I approached the chief (Joe Diener) and asked if he wanted my help to communicate with the family,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez is a 2017 Brillion High School graduate. She was recognized for her work with the department with a special recognition award at the fire department’s recent annual party.

Alvarez says the night of the fire was stressful because of the chaos going on but translating is something she is accustomed to.

“I believe someone’s least concern should be how they should communicate it to the family who was affected by this,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez is fluent in both English and Spanish, and has been for years. 

The complete story is available in the Dec. 19, 2019 print edition of The Brillion News.