SWEDESBORO — As New Jersey enters Phase 2 in its pandemic response, the Woolwich Fire Company lifts the curtain on its campaign to recruit more volunteer firefighters with its new recruitment website: www.woolwichfirefighter.org. The website was created to highlight the reasons to volunteer, and to collect inquiries.
Also debuting is a new slogan, “Train for the Worst. Save Lives with the Best,” which was developed by current volunteers to depict the heightened level of training Woolwich firefighters receive – all at no cost to them. The campaign will also include social media posts, lawn signs, banners, videos and outreach at community events.
A program will be introduced to the Board of Education this fall to recruit members at Kingsway High School.
“We are a welcoming family of volunteers and we have a place for you,” said Chief David Valichka. “It’s a great opportunity to help and your family will be proud of you for joining and doing your part helping the residents of Swedesboro and Woolwich Township.”
The busy fire company, which fielded nearly 600 calls in 2018 and 674 in 2019, serves both Woolwich Township and the Borough of Swedesboro. As many volunteer firefighters commute to work outside of the district, the need for firefighters has never been greater.
The campaign, which runs through 2022, comes at no cost to the local taxpayers. It is funded entirely through a Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Woolwich Fire Company has a place for everyone, regardless of age or level of experience. All training and equipment is provided to volunteers at no cost.
The following opportunities are available:
*Firefighter: Respond to fires, accidents, medical emergencies, hazardous material spills and other calls.
*Administrative member: The trustees, secretary, assistant secretary and treasurer who serve on committees for the Executive Board.
*Contributing member: Assists in fundraisers, community events and other administrative functions to support the Executive Board as well as the fire fighters in other capacities as needed.
*Junior member: Teenagers 14 through 17 can take part as junior members, receive training and learn the aspects of being a fire fighter on the front line. They can then become firefighters when they turn 18 and successfully complete the Fire Academy.
Joining the Woolwich Fire Company offers an experience like no other volunteer opportunity
“Being a firefighter has made me a better person all around, for any task in life,” said Nicholas Thompson, who serves with Woolwich Fire Company.
“I have made a second family and made lots of new friends,” said Edward H. Barber III. “It’s the most rewarding feeling, being able to help someone in their time of need. Plus it is a pure adrenaline rush.”
Cindy Phillips said, “I love the feeling of helping others in the community and meeting new people. It is a great feeling to help others in their time of need.”
To raise awareness of the need for volunteers, the Woolwich Fire Company recently hired The Communication Solutions Group Inc., a full-service public relations and marketing firm based in Jenkintown, PA. The company has successfully run numerous recruitment and retention campaigns for fire and rescue organizations in NJ and PA.
For more information or to fill out an inquiry form visit: www.woolwichfirefighter.org.
