ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS – Gerard (Jerry) Pandolfo has an unparalleled enthusiasm for helping people through local emergency service organizations, volunteering over 25 years to provide aid to others in time of need. He recently earned a coveted award from PSEG and a grant that will help the Atlantic Highlands First Aid & Safety Squad – a nonprofit organization he so strongly supports.
“Since childhood, I’ve always had a desire to help people,” said Pandolfo. “Between work, family and volunteering there is very little time to do much else, but I would have it no other way.”
A longtime Atlantic Highlands resident and veteran PSEG employee, Pandolfo was honored by his employer for his exhaustive volunteer efforts. In addition to awarding him one of its “Recognizing Excellence in Volunteerism” awards, the company gave the First Aid Squad a $1,000 grant on Pandolfo’s behalf.
“The Squad survives on financial donations from the borough and the community,” said Lou Marotta, President of the Atlantic Highlands First Aid & Safety Squad. “PSEG’s grant will be used to help purchase medical supplies, fund training opportunities and maintain its ambulances and watercraft.”
Pandolfo has worked for PSEG for 30 years and has been spent the last 14 years providing emergency medical service and training to his community, and teaches teenagers about water and ice rescue. He has served as the Squad’s vice president, as well as being active in the State First Aid Council and a member of the NJ State EMS Task Force.
“Jerry has been an integral part of the Squad,” said Richard Huff, Chief of the Atlantic Highlands First Aid & Safety Squad. “He’s an innovator, leader, coach, teacher and inspiration to all members, young and old.”
The Atlantic Highlands First Aid & Safety Squad is an independent, all-volunteer, emergency medial service and rescue organization servicing the 4,800 residents of the Borough of Atlantic Highlands, the approximately 5,000 commuters who use the local ferry service and municipal harbor, and an estimated 60,000 in immediate mutual aid response areas. The Squad is one of three in Monmouth County part of the statewide New Jersey EMS Task Force, which expands the impact of the organization to the entire state. For more information, visit www.ahfirstaid.org.
“Though our employees expend a great deal of energy at work, they still manage to find time to give back and make their communities better,” said Ralph Izzo, PSEG chairman, president, and CEO. “This year again, we honor their commitment and support their efforts. They are truly remarkable.”
