The Bravest First Step: Strengthening Community Through Volunteer Firefighting and EMS

"When that pager goes off, the adrenaline goes up ... you see people on their worst day and you try to make it better.” – Todd VanBuskirk, Sr.In this episode of Hudson Valley Storycatcher, we go behind the scenes of the local emergency services that keep our community safe. Host Jen Lee sits down with Todd VanBuskirk, Senior, a fourth-generation firefighter and veteran EMT with over 40 years of service in the Hudson Valley.Todd doesn't just hold a job; he holds a legacy. From rushing down the street to save a choking child to deep familiarity with the high-pressure environment of a volunteer fire department, Todd shares what it really means to be "of service" in a small town.In this episode, we discuss:The Family Legacy: What it’s like to grow up in a "firefighting family" and why he feels his calling is "in the blood."The Weekend Warriors (and Weekday Heroes): How local plumbers, electricians, and many others form the backbone of our regional 911 response.The Reality of the Call: Todd recounts the powerful story of saving a neighbor’s child and the way responding to emergencies also involves caring for others who are present, like family members.Perfectly Broken: A deep dive into the mental health challenges facing first responders and the local program helping them process the "things they can't unsee."The "Dark Roast" Fuel: A lighthearted look at the coffee-driven shifts of EMS and how responders "recharge" between calls.About Todd VanBuskirk, Senior:Todd is a lifelong Hudson Valley resident and a supervisor with the Town of Clinton EMS. He has spent four decades volunteering and working in emergency services, specializing in training the next generation of responders and advocating for mental health support within the ranks.Resources Mentioned:Perfectly Broken: A support program for first responders (founded by Rhinebeck Fire Chief Brian Knapp).Local Volunteering: Interested in helping? Visit your local firehouse on a Monday night or check out your town's emergency services page.Connect with Hudson Valley Storycatcher:Website: hudsonvalleystorycatcher.comSupport the Show: Share this episode with a neighbor or leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!Nominate a Neighbor: Recommend someone to be featured on the show by emailing: [email protected] now to hear why Todd believes the heart of a volunteer is the strongest thing in the world.