In communities like Allendale, Ho-Ho-Kus, Upper Saddle River, and Saddle River, volunteer emergency services—particularly ambulance corps and fire departments—are struggling to meet the growing demand for help. While these squads have historically relied on volunteers, recruitment challenges and the increasing pressures of maintaining operations with limited resources are making it difficult to keep up.
Daryl D’Amore-Bottaro, of the Allendale Volunteer Ambulance Corps, sheds light on the significant issue: “Volunteerism is dying. We just don’t have the membership we used to have. Right now, I’m down to 10 active riding members—and that doesn’t even include me. I’ve been on the squad for over 30 years.”
For many of these towns, the volunteer squads are the backbone of emergency services. However, the number of volunteers has steadily declined, putting more pressure on the remaining members to cover shifts and respond to calls.
“On average, we run about 700 calls a year,” says D’Amore-Bottaro. “We’ve been here for 88 years, but now we’re struggling to keep the doors open. If we don’t find a solution soon, these services could be replaced by paid services.”
The shortage of volunteers is a widespread issue in the Northern Highlands, with each town grappling with similar struggles. Volunteer fire departments and ambulance squads across the area, like Ho-Ho-Kus and Upper Saddle River, face the same challenges. These squads rely heavily on donations and fundraisers to cover operational expenses like ambulance maintenance and uniforms. But as the volunteer pool shrinks, it is becoming increasingly difficult to stay afloat.
To address this issue, volunteer squads are actively seeking new members. “We’re looking for stay-at-home parents, remote workers, anyone who can spare an hour here and there to help out,” D’Amore-Bottaro explains. “We provide all the training you need—there’s no cost to get started. And it’s not just about riding the ambulance. We need help with administrative work, fundraising, and supporting the community in other ways.”
Volunteerism offers not only a chance to give back to the community but also valuable training in emergency medical services. “We offer a variety of membership options,” D’Amore-Bottaro says. “From EMTs to auxiliary members, there’s a spot for everyone. Even if you can’t commit to going out on calls, you can still help in meaningful ways.”
The impact of the volunteer shortage is not just about meeting the demands of emergency services. It’s also about the sense of community that these squads provide. “We come from all walks of life,” D’Amore-Bottaro says. “We have attorneys, nurses, construction workers—all coming together to serve the community. We’re a big family. And that’s something special.”
As these squads continue to rely on community support, their message is clear: there’s a place for everyone in this important work. Whether you have time to ride the ambulance, assist with events, or help raise funds, there’s an opportunity to make a real difference.
This summer, several events will be hosted to help raise awareness and funds for local squads, including the popular Allendale Day and fireworks events. Those interested in volunteering or supporting the cause are encouraged to get involved.
For many, the future of these services hinges on attracting new volunteers and ensuring the continued strength of these vital community resources. As D’Amore-Bottaro emphasizes, “We want to keep providing free, emergency services to the community. But without more volunteers, that may not be possible.”
If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about these squads and their upcoming events, please visit their websites or contact local fire or EMS departments. Your support can help ensure these essential services remain available for generations to come.
For more information you can the departments respective websites.
Resources
EMS
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Allendale Volunteer Ambulance Corps – allendaleambulance.org
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Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteer Ambulance Corps – hhkvac.org
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Upper Saddle River Ambulance Corps – usrems.org
Fire Departments
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Allendale Fire Department – allendalenj.gov/volunteer-fire-department
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Ho-Ho-Kus Fire Department – hhkfire.com
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Upper Saddle River Fire Department – usrfd.org
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Saddle River Fire Department – saddleriverfd.org
“We want to keep providing free, emergency services to the community. But without more volunteers, that may not be possible.” - Daryl D’Amore-Bottaro