Celebrate Chatham At The Second Annual Community Appreciation Event

CHATHAM, NJ — The Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department (CTVFD) will hold its second annual Community Appreciation Day at the Chatham Township Municipal Building on Saturday, Oct. 8, from 2 to 7 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to put their firefighting skills to the test, tour the department's trucks, participate in fire prevention activities, and listen to live music provided by local band Rosewood, among other things.

“The CTVFD Community Appreciation Day is our way of saying thank you to the residents of the Township for their continued support. As a 100 percent volunteer, independent 501c3 organization, the CTVFD relies on that support to deliver on our lifesaving, firefighting mission,” CTVFD President Richard Gentles said.

There will also be a bounce house, inflatable interactive sports games, chances to win prizes and a beer and wine garden at the family-friendly event.

According to officials, residents have supported the department through various philanthropic activities and fund-raisers, such as the annual fund drive and Christmas tree sale, for more than 95 years.

Although the event is being hosted by Chatham, attendees from all over Morris County are welcome, Gentles said.

The Fire Department, which was founded in 1925, is entirely made up of volunteer members, including 25 active firefighters, junior firefighters and associate members.

The volunteer fire company has its headquarters on River Road and a second station on Southern Boulevard, and it responds to about 300 calls per year, both within Chatham Township and as mutual aid to departments in neighboring communities.

For more information about Community Appreciation Day and how to become a sponsor, contact Gentles at President@CTFD.org.