Founded by Robin Scarff in memory of her husband to provide grants to Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association, Inc. for volunteer recruitment efforts.

Sonny knew his calling in life as a young teenager. Growing up across the street from the Carroll Manor Volunteer Fire Department, in the early 1950’s, he witnessed the commitment to community to serve and protect. He joined the Carroll Manor VFD while still in high school. After his discharge from the Air Force, where he flew B-25 Bombers and trained as an Air Traffic Controller, Sonny began his career with the Washington D.C. Fire Department. He served in active firefighting Battalions and subsequently as a Battalion Chief’s aide. In 1966, Sonny was recruited as a senior career fire officer with the Chillum-Adelphi Volunteer Fire Dept.

His exemplary record in fire suppression also afforded him a position as a Field Instructor with the Maryland Fire & Rescue Institute at the University of Maryland. In 1974, Sonny joined the Marriott Corporation, where he was tasked with the development and implementation of a Fire Protection & Life Safety program.

Under his leadership and innovative approach, Marriott became a leader in hospitality fire protection. Sonny was honored to be the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and medals.

Sonny inspired people to do their best. His best was to protect people. He loved his profession. By creating the Sonny Scarff Fire and Rescue Recruitment Fund, his wife hopes to honor his legacy and support to those who will make the commitment to courage, to serve and protect.