Serving the community was instilled in Sam Moran, 34, from a young age. With relatives having served in NYPD and FDNY, public service was something she was always eager to explore. In 2020, she made the leap and joined Gordons Corner Fire Company as a volunteer firefighter.

“I have had nothing but positive experiences at Gordons Corner. Not only have I learned a lot, but I gained a group of friends that are willing to help those in need, their community and each other,” she said.

Sam, originally from Brooklyn, N.Y., has spent most of her life in Manalapan, N.J. She is a technology education teacher and track and field coach at Manalapan High School.

Her favorite part about being involved in the fire service is the never-ending opportunity to improve or learn something new. To prepare for whatever may be encountered at the scene of an emergency, Gordons Corner trains for the unexpected in its weekly drills. This, coupled with the wide range of members that make up the fire company, makes it easy for new members to integrate into the company and be ready to answer the call.

“Our department is filled with people with all different types of backgrounds, skills and abilities. We learn different things from each other, adding new tools to our own toolboxes that can be used on calls and in our personal lives,” Sam stated.

As one of the two women firefighters at Gordons Corner Fire Company, Sam encourages other women in the community to consider joining.

“While the fire service is male-dominated, my experience as a female firefighter at Gordons Corner has been no different than anyone else’s in our department. Everyone who joins our department has the opportunity to prove themselves, and I will forever continue to do so,” said Sam.

No previous experience is required to join Gordons Corner Fire Company, and training and gear are provided at no cost. The department offers a variety of roles including firefighter, junior firefighter, fire police or auxiliary members.

“Joining Gordons Corner allows you to meet amazing people, learn from others and help their community in a unique way,” Sam added.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities or express interest in joining, visit www.JoinGordonsCornerFire.org/Contact/.