First Responder Recruitment Drive in New Castle Sunday

The first responders that operate in New Castle are joining forces to participate in a joint recruitment initiative to help increase the number of volunteer emergency responders.

A unified recruitment drive will take place in Millwood from 12-3 p.m. April 24, at the Millwood Plaza, 230 Saw Mill River Road.

Frst responders will be on hand to discuss the requirements to be a volunteer, conduct demonstrations, answer questions and let visitors know how to become a first responder. Learn about the Chappaqua Fire Department, Millwood Fire Department, Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the Ossining Volunteer Ambulance Corps.

Kids of all ages can check out the firetrucks and ambulances.

"Millwood Fire Company is again urging all members of the community to consider volunteering as a Firefighter," said Greg Santone, Fire Chief of the Millwood Fire Department. "Volunteerism is on the decline overall as people lead very busy lives with multiple family members working. Although the Community at large is very supportive of the Fire Company in terms of the taxes paid to equip us with apparatus, firefighting equipment and well maintained Fire Stations, active firefighting members are the core of the services we provide and new members to take the place of those who have volunteered for decades are sorely needed. We are asking everyone to give it serious thought.

"You would be serving your neighbors in one of the most rewarding and fulfilling ways possible. Students, parents, male or female, younger or a little bit older.....PLEASE consider becoming a Volunteer with the Millwood Fire Company. All training and equipment are provided at no charge, and there are many benefits which we would be happy to go over with you when serving as a Volunteer Firefighter in New York State including real estate and income tax deductions, scholarships, a modest retirement program, etc. PLEASE - Come and check us out this weekend."

New Castle Supervisor Rob Greenstein said he thought "this collaborative effort will provide an opportunity to highlight the rewards and responsibilities that come with being a volunteer first responder, Come, have fun, and learn what it takes to serve your community in an exciting and fulfilling way!"

Chappaqua Fire Department

The Chappaqua Fire Department (CFD) is an all volunteer group of men and women dedicated to providing emergency services to New Castle Fire District #1. The CFD was founded in 1910 and consists of three fire companies (engine, ladder, rescue) and the CFD Association. The Association assists with non-firematic duties. The CFD operates 7 pieces of firefighting apparatus, maintains 2 firehouses, and has 50 active firefighters. All firefighting equipment, apparatus and other essential items are paid for via real estate taxes. Community functions and non-firematic expenses are paid for with public donations made to The Chappaqua Fire Department Fund Drive. The CFD operates under the direction of the Chief and his assistants and officers, all of whom are elected by the membership.

New Castle Fire District #1 covers 9 square miles (primarily Chappaqua), and is administered by a five-member Board of Fire Commissioners who are elected by the residents of the Fire District.

Want more information? Ready to join?

Stop by the firehouse on any Thursday evening around 7:30pm, or call the chiefs’ office at 238-0819 and leave a message.

Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corps

Have you ever considered being a lifesaver? The Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corps (CVAC) seeks new volunteers with a desire to help friends and neighbors in need.

* No experience is necessary to join CVAC as all training will be provided.
* All new members are assigned a mentor who will guide them through the process of joining and provide on-going support and advice.
* Time commitment is flexible to fit your schedule. You can be on call from your home or anywhere within a few minutes from CVAC headquarters. We serve 24/7, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year!

If you want to serve your community in an exciting and fulfilling way, please contact us at 914-238-3191 to speak to a volunteer about joining. You can also visit the Chappaqua Volunteer Ambulance Corp website, http://www.chappaquaambulance.org.

Ossining Volunteer Ambulance Corps

The Ossining Volunteer Ambulance Corps has been around since 1958 and needs volunteers to keep saving lives. If you haven't considered volunteering, there are many great reasons.

* It's an opportunity to give back to your community
* You'll get free New York State approved training as an emergency medical technician
* Neighbors helping neighbors
* It's a great way for National Honor Society members to obtain credit for community service
* Pride and comradery

If you're interested in joining the Corps, please call 914-487-3091 or email ossiningvacmembership@gmail.com.

Even if you cannot make the commitment to join the Corps, there are many ways to help support their efforts. OVAC depends on the generosity of individuals and businesses for support. All donations are tax deductible.

Millwood Fire Company

The Millwood Fire company is welcome to new recruits Male & Female, 16 – 60 years of age (and older), who are residents of the Millwood Fire District. Did you know our fire district includes parts of Chappaqua, Briarcliff, Ossining plus all of Millwood? Tell us where you live, and we’ll let you know if you reside in our fire district.

This is your opportunity to connect with neighbors and friends by serving your community as a certified Westchester County interior fire fighter. Training expenses and equipment are 100% covered and we work around your schedule. All your family, friends, neighbors, and more importantly, you, will be honored and proud of your service to our community! Be a real life super hero. For more information, contact Chief Greg Santone at 914-438-3257 or gsantone1@gmail.com. You can also visit the Millwood Fire Company website http://www.millwoodfire.org.