Community Corner
CT Volunteer Ambulance Chief: ‘People Truly Care For Each Other'
"Being able to serve Newtown is an honor that I'll cherish forever," says Chief Michelle Greenspan.
First responders are a vital part of our communities, keeping us safe and playing an integral role in daily life. Patch and T-Mobile have partnered on a Ride-Along series to showcase the important work these departments and individuals do every day.
We had the opportunity to speak with Chief Michelle Greenspan, NRP, RPh, of the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps to learn more about the department, life as an EMT and the impact of their work.
Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
Can you tell us a bit about the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps?
Chief Greenspan: The Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a tight-knit, dedicated group of emergency medical technician (EMT) volunteers who are passionate about serving our community 365 days a year -24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We cover the 59.1 square miles of Newtown, answering over 3,000 911 calls annually, and provide emergency medical services to our residents when they need us the most. Our Corps is made up of members who come from all walks of life, from students to retirees, all working together to respond to medical emergencies and ensure the well-being of everyone in our community. While our Corps is made up primarily of volunteer EMTs that respond to basic life support (BLS) calls, we also have one paid Paramedic on staff that responds to advanced life support (ALS) calls.
What does a typical day look like for an EMT in Newtown?
Chief Greenspan: A typical day for an EMT in Newtown can be unpredictable, but that’s part of what makes this so much fun. We start by checking our equipment, making sure everything is ready to go, and then we remain on standby, awaiting a call. When a call comes in, we immediately respond, whether it’s for a medical emergency, a car accident, or even a lift assist. We provide on-scene care, transport patients to local hospitals when needed and work in tandem with other emergency responders.
What inspired you to get involved with the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps?
Chief Greenspan: I’ve always enjoyed being able to help people and saw the NVAC placards asking people to join when driving past the station in town. I wanted to be someone who could make a difference in someone’s life during their most critical moments. The idea of offering comfort, care and hope to people in times of uncertainty is what inspired me to join, and it’s what continues to keep me dedicated today.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Newtown community?
Chief Greenspan: People truly care for each other here, and it’s amazing to see how we come together in times of crisis. Whether we’re responding to an emergency or just walking through town, you feel connected, looking out for each other. Being able to serve Newtown is an honor that I’ll cherish forever.
What advice would you offer to someone considering becoming a first responder?
Chief Greenspan: To anyone considering becoming a first responder, I would say this: it’s not an easy path, but it’s one of the most rewarding journeys you can take. The impact you’ll have is something truly special. The hours can be long, the calls can be tough and there will be moments that test your resilience. But if you’re driven by a genuine desire to help others, you will find fulfillment in giving back to your community.
More About the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps
The Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps offers several ways for individuals to get involved and explore EMT opportunities, including:
- EMT certification classes that offer expert-led, in-person training with hands-on experience, real 911 ride-alongs and comprehensive materials.
- Volunteer openings to join NVAC as a certified EMT.
- A Junior Member program for community youth who are interested in EMT work and have passed a state and practical exam. Applicants must be at least 17.5 years of age, maintain passing grades in school and commit to 16 hours per month.
For more information, visit the Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps website.
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