Gerritsen Beach—Fired!–the word that in 2009 is in employers’ minds and in our everyday fears, although in this case, fire (without the D) is providing jobs–positions as volunteer fire fighters.
In a fire department in Gerritsen Beach, Brooklyn, there are 18 volunteers, men who provide safety and reassurance to the neighborhood. 
“The fact that these guys are here and are doing this out of choice makes me feel a little more at ease,” says long time resident Crystal Grillo. There are many local fire houses around the area, contributing to a sense of well being. For some reason, though, the idea of its being voluntary makes some residents feel that they are less reluctant to get up and do their ‘jobs’ than “full-time firefighters.”
Either way, whether the job is voluntary or not, firefighters provide service to their communities. The more firefighters or cops in the neighborhood, the better it is for people. While the majority of people are thinking about their economic status and avoiding the “F” word, these men are embracing it and making a difference to Gerritsen Beach, Brooklyn.
An interesting blog- a different angle and something fresh in the slew of economic stories that are everywhere. Very little is done about the fire department because it is taken for granted and this shines light on how it is providing jobs and staying strong right now.
Great post. There’s actually a volunteer firehouse by my neighborhood that is actually fighting not to be shut down.They’re trying to gather up a petition in protest. It’s hard because I don’t think many people in the neighborhood even know that they exist.
It’s great that people still find it necessary to volunteer for the greater good of the community. Most people just focus on their career paths. This is a big city and the more help we get, the better it is. I applaud all the volunteers of the fire department.
Are these unpaid volunteers? How does that help those laid-off (not fired) financially??