Spotlight on Volunteers: Chris Serra, New City Fire Department

Volunteer: Chris Serra

Organization: New City Fire Department

Chris Serra, 41, grew up in New City and, despite a short stint in western Pennsylvania, has lived there all of his life. He is the director of physical education, athletics and aquatics for the Clarkstown Central School District, and finds time to volunteer for the New City Fire Department whenever possible.  

Serra's positive attitude toward education and community stewardship is paralleled in his work as a firefighter, where his passion for saving lives and serving members of the New City community is both inspirational and noteworthy.

Why did you choose to volunteer?

While growing up I constantly observed both of my parents volunteering for various organizations throughout Clarkstown.  Both my parents were very pleased to start a new life in New City leaving the Bronx in the 60s.  New City being much smaller then and growing in size very quickly, gave my parents and many others, a great opportunity to essentially build a new community.  My father was very active in the community and contributed a lot to the many clubs, programs, and political committees he was a part of.  My mother was a school nurse and was always helping people. So it was instilled upon me at a very young age to help others and become active to make our community a great place to live.

How did you get started?

Getting started was very easy. I merely needed to select an organization that would fit my needs.  The fire department offered me both the traditional aspect of volunteering as well as the excitement and lifesaving component I had become accustomed to as a lifeguard for many years.

How do you make time to volunteer and do all the other things that you have to do?

Making the time is the most challenging part, not only for me but for my family.  As you are on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week, there are many things I miss out on or are interrupted, such as a family event, dinner at a restaurant, sleeping, watching my kids at a school or athletic event.  However, we have a point system that as long as I meet my points for the month and year I still can remain as an active firefighter.  Having this system awards me certain flexibility in choosing my family and work first.

Do you plan to make volunteering a part of your life in the future?

I will remain as a firefighter for the New City Fire Department as long as my body allows me to.

Serra mentioned how "I become more fascinated with [firefightering] every day in every aspect ...  it really taps into every kind of volunteerism that you'd want to do."

In addition to firefighting, Serra is involved with the New City Fire Department's fire safety educational outreach efforts.

When Serra was asked about his overall impression of volunteering for the New City Fire Department, he responded: "There's nothing more satisfying than saving a life. It is really one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. All of the firefighters respect and look out for each other equally, and they're really a wonderful group of people."