Kashima Stotts has been the office manager at the Chatham Fire Protection District for over 12 years. Recently, Stotts was inspired by Chatham firefighters to join the team.

CHATHAM, Ill. (WAND) — Kashima Stotts has been the office manager at the Chatham Fire Protection District for over 12 years. Recently, Stotts was inspired by Chatham firefighters to join the team. 

"What motivated me is watching these guys effortlessly go out daily to do tons of acts for people of the community," said Stotts. "The things that they do often go unseen and seeing the courage they have makes me want to just give my help where ever I can."

Stotss is about halfway through the training to become a firefighter and says she is dedicated to finishing it. Stotts adds that though she is only 4'11 and older than most recruits, her goal is to help her community. 

"I'm just hoping the things that I do make someone else think that they can do it too," said Stotts. "If there's anything in life you think you can't do, still give it a try." 

Stotts hopes that other women who see her working, or even young girls, will be inspired to know that this is a job they can do.

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