Breanna Hartman celebrates her graduation from the Middletown Fire Academy with her father, former Red Bank Fire Chief Wayne Hartman. Today, she continues her family's tradition of service as president of the Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary
Volunteers of the Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary
Volunteers of the Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary
Breanna Hartman, President of the Red Bank Fire Department AuxiliaryPhoto Credit: Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary
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RED BANK, NJ – TAPinto Red Bank has been running a series of “Back of the House” profiles highlighting the men and women who keep the borough running behind the scenes.
The goal is to give residents a closer look at the people and departments that keep Red Bank vibrant, safe, and functioning seamlessly 24/7/365.
Hence, “Back of the House." When someone agrees to be featured in a TAPinto Red Bank “Back of the House” article, I encourage them to take their time with the Q&A and to truly “speak from the heart.”
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In this article, we asked a few questions of Breanna Hartman, President, Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary.
TAPinto: Please tell our readers about the mission of the Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary and how it supports the fire department.
Hartman: The Auxiliary started with women, usually wives of the firefighters, who assisted members of the Fire Department in whatever capacity they were needed. Historically, members have participated in many parades, fairs, regattas, and wet downs.
The Auxiliary also served coffee, water, and food at major fire scenes. Today, the Ladies Auxiliary has updated its name to The Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary, welcoming both men and women.
Even though our name has changed, our goal has remained the same; to aid and assist the Red Bank Volunteer Firefighters in any capacity needed.
This may include, but is not limited to: participating in any events representing the department, continuing to serve water, coffee, and food to our firefighters at all major fires and incidents, providing rest and recovery as a part of our newly established Rehab Unit, as well as supporting our department during drills and any other times of need.
The Auxiliary also works alongside our EMT’s and First Responders, giving our firefighters anything they may need at an emergency scene.
TAPinto: What inspired you to become involved with the Auxiliary, and what eventually led you to serve as president?
Hartman: I joined the auxiliary because I felt like it was a part of my destiny. I’ve been volunteering for over 12 years now as an auxiliary member and 3 years as a firefighter, but I basically grew up in the firehouse.
My family’s involvement dates back generations on both sides of my parents. I’ve had and currently have family members that were actively involved in the Fire Department, First Aid, and Auxiliary. I was originally inspired to get involved because I wanted to give back to my community and support the dedicated volunteers who work so hard to keep Red Bank safe.
As I became more involved, I saw how important the Auxiliary is to the success of the fire department and how much of a difference we can make.
Serving as president was a natural way for me to take on a greater role, help bring people together, and encourage others to get involved. It’s rewarding to be part of an organization that makes a positive impact on our community.
Today, I currently serve in the Auxiliary with both of my sisters, my mother, and my grandmother, as well as serving as a firefighter with my father, grandfather, uncle, and brother-in-law.
I am proud to continue my family legacy!
TAPinto: What are some of the most successful fundraisers or community events the Auxiliary organizes each year?
Hartman: Some of our most successful fundraisers or events are the ones that bring our community together for the greater good of supporting our volunteer fire department.
This includes, but not limited to our annual cornhole tournament, setting up tables at local community events, participating in the school’s Trunk or Treats, the town’s Halloween and Memorial Day parades, and hosting fundraising nights at local restaurants and stores.
These events allow us to raise funds for the fire department while connecting with residents and spreading awareness about our Auxiliary. We are grateful for the continued support of our community, and we look forward to building on these events and creating even more opportunities to bring Red Bank together.
The success of these events depends on the generosity and participation of our community, and we’re incredibly grateful for everyone who continues to support our Auxiliary and the Red Bank Volunteer Fire Department.
TAPinto: How important are volunteers to the Auxiliary’s success, and what qualities do you look for in prospective members?
Hartman: Volunteers are the heart of our Auxiliary and essential to its success. We look for people who are dependable, community-minded, willing to help, and passionate about supporting our first responders.
You don’t need special experience to get involved, just a willingness to give your time, work as part of a team, and make a difference. Every volunteer has their strengths and brings something valuable to the table, and together, we help keep our department and community strong.
Any help, no matter how much, is greatly appreciated.
TAPinto: What are some of the biggest challenges facing volunteer organizations like the Auxiliary today?
Hartman: One of the biggest challenges facing volunteer organizations like our Auxiliary is finding people who have the time and willingness to get involved.
Between busy work schedules, family responsibilities, and everyday commitments, recruiting and retaining volunteers can be difficult. Fundraising and securing enough resources to support the fire department are also ongoing challenges.
Raising community awareness about the importance of the Auxiliary and the volunteer fire service is essential to keeping our organization strong and ensuring we can continue supporting the firefighters who serve Red Bank.
TAPinto: How does the Auxiliary help strengthen the connection between the fire department and the Red Bank community?
Hartman: The Auxiliary helps strengthen the connection between the fire department and the Red Bank community through fundraising, community events, and outreach.
We help bring residents and first responders together, raise awareness about the importance of the volunteer fire service, and encourage community involvement.
Our goal is to build strong relationships, show our appreciation for the community’s support, and remind residents that we are all working together to keep Red Bank safe.
TAPinto: Are there any upcoming projects, initiatives, or events that residents should know about?
Hartman: Our Auxiliary is always looking for new ways to support our firefighters and connect with the Red Bank community. We plan to continue hosting fundraisers, participating in community events, and finding ways to welcome new members.
We encourage residents to follow our Facebook page (Red Bank Fire Department Auxiliary) for updates on upcoming events and opportunities to get involved. Every bit of community support helps us continue our mission!
TAPinto: What message would you like to share with Red Bank residents about supporting the Auxiliary and the volunteer fire service?
Hartman: We encourage Red Bank residents to support our Auxiliary and volunteer fire service in any way they can. Whether through donations of snacks, water and/or towels, volunteering, fundraising, or attending community events, every bit of support makes a difference.
Our department depends on the strength of our community, and together, we can continue to keep Red Bank safe. Please continue to check our Facebook page for updates, and reach out to us at [email protected] for further information.
Thank you for supporting the volunteers who proudly serve our community!
All in the Firefighting Family
To read the Back of the House article, “Red Bank Fire Chief Wayne Hartman: Been There, Done That & Doing It Again!” TAPhere.
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