There are few things that remain unchanged after the passing of a century. The 20th century in particular brought about radical advancement in technology and societies around the globe. Although the Willow Street Fire Company is one of many fire departments that have evolved to better serve modern society, its core mission has stayed the same - even after 100 years.

The Willow Street Fire Company, 2901 N. Willow Street Pike, will commemorate 100 years of service with an open house and community celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 15. The rain-or-shine event will include live music, local vendors and demonstrations from several emergency service organizations from Willow Street and its neighboring communities.

Demonstrations will include medical helicopters and an antique fire engine, as well as a medical helicopter fly-by if weather permits. Attendees will have an opportunity to complete a small obstacle course and learn about the safest methods of exiting a smoky building. Refreshments will be available to purchase from a variety of food trucks, such as Tri-County Barbecue, Premium Shaved Ice, G's Oven Fresh Pizza, Auntie Anne's and Moo Shakes. Tickets for a prize drawing will be available to purchase during the open house, and prizes will include items from a variety of local businesses.

Lancaster County Commissioner Ray D'Agostino and state Reps. Steven Mentzer and Bryan Cutler will attend the opening ceremony of the event, and a memorial will be set up to honor five members of the Willow Street Fire Company who have died in the line of duty since the department was founded.

"We are a 100% volunteer fire company. Being volunteer-run and lasting 100 years is almost unheard of, but we manage due to community support," said Jennifer Anastasio, chair of the open house committee. "We want to celebrate with (members of the community) because of that."

Although Willow Street Fire Company receives a small portion of its funding from West Lampeter Township, its primary source of funds is acquired via fundraising letters it sends out to the community three times a year. Community donations help to cover expenses such as building upgrades, apparatus maintenance and safety equipment, allowing the fire company to better serve Willow Street and parts of Pequea and Providence townships. The organization has recently made a few significant improvements to its fire station, including a full-service generator that will allow the facility to function in the event of a complete power outage.

For more information on the fire company, visit http://www.wsfc512.com. For additional details or updates on the event, search "Willow Street Fire Company" on Facebook.