Chris Hopkins works in finance full-time. By volunteering with the Garden City Fire Company, he is also able to serve his community by responding to local emergencies and educating the public about fire safety and prevention.
“The work that I do day-to-day is very different from what I am doing on the community service side of my life. It is definitely rewarding, and adds to my sense of purpose,” said Hopkins.
Hopkins first began his career as a volunteer firefighter at 15 years old when he was living in Connecticut. His next door neighbor was a member of the local fire company and his mother was an ER nurse, both encouraged him to sign up. He continued to engage in fire service during his weekends and on school breaks throughout high school and college, until he graduated and relocated for work.
“I started my career in a large global investment bank in New York City. Subsequently, I received an offer to work at a mid-sized investment management firm in Philadelphia. During this time, I had to put my interest in volunteer firefighting on hold for about 10 years. After meeting my wife, moving from our apartment in Center City, Philadelphia to a home in Wallingford, and having our first child; I felt that it would be a good time to get back into firefighting. One day I decided to wander over to the fire station from the playground with my son and requested an application as a crew was returning from a call,” said Hopkins.
Hopkins currently works in Credit Risk at The Vanguard Group and responds to emergency calls at night, during the weekends, or very occasionally on his remote working days when there are no work conflicts.
“Juggling a demanding full-time job, being a father of two boys, participating in ongoing fire training and responding to calls undoubtedly has its challenges. Thankfully, I have a wife that is very supportive, I am a member of a fire company that recognizes my family/work responsibilities, and my current employer values my engagement in community service,” said Hopkins.
Hopkins describes Garden City Fire as a highly experienced, family oriented, multigenerational fire company.
“The environment within the fire house is team oriented, which allows me to reconnect with my years playing sports, which is something that I really enjoyed,” said Hopkins. “If you enjoy being part of a team, if you have a sense of duty to help others in times of need, or if you are looking to add an exciting change of pace in your day, or if you would just like to learn something new about yourself and what you are capable of, then I would encourage you to join us,” said Hopkins.
Those interested in joining the diverse team of adept, skilled volunteers at Garden City Fire Company can fill out a volunteer inquiry form at www.GardenCityFirefighter.org. No experience is required to join, and training and gear are provided for free.