Kenneth M. Douglas, MPA is the founder, President, and CEO of The Flame Group — a non-profit organization based in Short Hills, New Jersey dedicated to fire safety education, community development, and protecting the people who protect us.
With a Master of Public Administration and over a decade of experience in community advocacy, Kenneth has built a career around one core belief: that safety education saves lives — and it starts with our youngest generation.
Kenneth created The Spark Guards because he saw a gap — kids need safety heroes they can actually connect with. The book brings his real-world work with The Flame Group into a story world where Courage, Kindness, and Teamwork aren't just words — they're superpowers.
Each of the 11 Spark Guards carries a safety message drawn directly from Kenneth's years of community outreach, fire prevention education, and youth mentorship across New Jersey.
Raising awareness and supporting fire departments across New Jersey through education, training, and community safety programs.
Fostering partnerships with government agencies, businesses, and community organizations to build resilient, safer neighborhoods.
Mentoring the next generation through scholarships, youth programs, and now — children's books that make safety lessons unforgettable.
Kenneth's debut children's book introduces the world to 11 animal heroes — each one embodying a core value of fire and community safety. From Flick the field leader to Chief Cinder the commander, every Spark Guard carries a message every child should know.