Why We Volunteer
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When Paul and I got married, we purchased my parents' house in Glen Rock. As a way to meet people, Paul joined the GRVAC. We socialized a lot with other couples and became a close knit group. As time went on, the wives joined too and formed a strong bond and support system through good and bad times. At this point in my life, the GRVAC is a part of my family.
Diane Herrlett, President |
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Membership in the GRVAC is very rewarding. The corps' members come from diverse backgrounds but with a common goal: giving back to the community through neighbors helping neighbors. I feel very lucky to be part of such a caring, dedicated group of people.
Brian Markey. Chief |
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As a nurse I decided there was no better way to use my skills than to help my neighbors. Plus, as a nurse I was able to become an EMT on a fast track. This has been one of the best decisions I’ve made and I’m very proud to be a part of this family.
Amy Boardman |
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With more than 40 years as a volunteer EMT, it's hard to imagine myself not responding to a call for help. It has become a way of life for me - and a very rewarding one.
Ed Esposito, |
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I joined the GRVAC because my father was a Life Member. My father, being a member, was larger than large in my eyes. My dad was always my hero. If he did it, I knew it was right. I always thought about joining but after 9/11, I made the move to join. I am so happy that I did!
Sal Danna |
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I witnessed 9/11 firsthand. I'm am American, and if help is needed, I want to help. Although I am an attorney and judge by profession, I decided to become an EMT to help others. It has made a world of difference in my life.
Tom Ludlum |
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I wanted to get involved in a way to make an important contribution. Since there is a shortage of daytime volunteers, I joined the GRVAC as a driver/lifter to enable our EMTs to better focus on the patient, while I focus on the ambulance and equipment. I am proud to be a part of this very dedicated group of volunteers and our town is better because of them.
Gary Stevens |
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Becoming an EMT is the biggest and proudest decision of my life. There is no other feeling than that of helping others.
Josh Stein |
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When my brother passed away from a tragic accident 20 years ago, my two sisters and I joined to honor his memory. I continue serving today for the same reason.
Christine Kochaniec |
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I always wanted a career in emergency services, so after college, I volunteered at the GRVAC to gain the confidence and skills necessary. I have enjoyed the numerous opportunities for training, and I am also happy to be part of the family. Here is Mike when he graduated EMT school receiving his diploma from Dennis McNerney, former Bergen Country Officer.
Mike Teegan |
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Joining the GRVAC has been a great decision for me because it has given me a unique chance to volunteer alongside a unified and diverse group of interesting people who are passionate about serving our community. It has been a fantastic opportunity to get more involved in my hometown, gain invaluable knowledge of important topics, and gain clinical experience vital to my life goals - in a very personally fulfilling way.
Kevin Carbone |
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I decided on joining the GRVAC as an EMT to solidify my desire of becoming a nurse. After joining, I was able to pursue my course by helping the community and also, applying, and being admitted into Seton Hall College of Nursing. Being an EMT has brought me many new experiences and opportunities in the health care profession. I was able to create relationships within the town, within hospitals, and within the community of emergency medicine before even setting foot into the university. The GRVAC family has helped me along my journey and I am so thankful to be a part of it.
Moira Ryan |
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When I moved from New York City to Glen Rock, I quit my job and felt lost. My husband, a native Glen Rocker and retired New York City police detective, decided to rejoin the Glen Rock Fire Department, which regenerated a strong bond of camaraderie and sparked my desire to volunteer. After six months of training, I left the EMT academy with the sense of pride and confidence that I missed. Being a GRVAC member gives me validation and purpose.
Jennette Montgomery |
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The reason I joined is easy to explain. My wife Nancy was a member and I attended a GRVAC function. When I saw the family attitude they had for each other, I had to join.
Matt Catanese |
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I have been riding since I was a youth member. My husband Art is a volunteer for the GRFD and we know how valuable our services are to Glen Rock.
Joan Zanotti |
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I am an attorney at law by day and an EMT at night. The shock of not knowing what to do in emergency has paralyzed me many times, like visiting my aged parents in emergencies; or showing up at an inner-city hospital with my niece laying on a gurney in the hallway totally ignorant of what to do; or how to react from my daughters asthma & anaphylactic reactions from peanuts. I was clueless, ignorant frozen in fear, so I decided I must learn basic first aid!
Jay Bernstein |
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Having lived in Glen Rock most of my life, I felt it was time to get more involved in town. Joining the GRVAC was a great decision and has been very rewarding. It’s very fulfilling to be a part of this unified and diverse group of people who are dedicated to serving the community.
John Bernard |
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As an aspiring physician, I have always felt a calling towards helping people. I started out in emergency care as a lifeguard at the Glen Rock Pool. After my first time saving a life, I knew I wanted to further my education so I could provide a higher level of medical care for my community. I went to EMT school and with the support of GRVAC I gained one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.
Nadia Fazal |
