Volunteering has been a way of life for Keith Obriwin since he was 16. After relocating from Manchester to Manalapan, leaving behind the fire company he volunteered with for 15 years, Keith wasn’t ready to hang up his gear. That’s why he joined Gordons Corner Fire Company. 

“I have met many great people who are motivated and just as dedicated to serving the community as I am,” said Keith. 

Keith joined in December 2021 and was promoted to captain for 2025, currently serving as 1st lieutenant. Keith’s love for volunteering is something he shares with his late father and brother, who volunteers at another fire company. 

“I grew up with my dad and brother going to many wet-downs, which are ceremonial traditions where firefighters spray a new fire truck with a hose. I convinced my dad and brother to join the volunteer fire company in the town we lived in with me,” said Keith. 

“Volunteering has positively impacted my life, allowing me to help people in the community in some of their darkest, most trying times,” he added.

Furthermore, volunteering has allowed Keith to enhance his team-building skills and taught him how to be a better leader professionally as a branch manager for a third-party oil inspection company. 

When he isn’t volunteering or working, Keith enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, vacationing, landscaping and being outdoors. 

“My six-year-old daughter tells me she feels safe because if there’s a fire, I’ll know what to do. My eight-year-old son loves the firehouse and wants to be a fireman,” said Keith. 

Gordons Corner Fire Company offers the following volunteer roles: firefighter, junior firefighter, fire police or auxiliary member. No prior experience is needed; the fire company will provide all the training and gear. 

“It is very fulfilling and rewarding. In addition, there are financial perks such as retirement assistance,” said Keith.

Visit www.JoinGordonsCornerFire.org to become a volunteer.