Lakewood First Aid honored more than three dozen volunteers at its Annual Appreciation Dinner, recognizing members who provide around-the-clock emergency medical services on a fully volunteer, non-compensated basis.

The event was held at Yapchik Restaurant and highlighted the organization’s activity and growth over the past year. In 2025, Lakewood First Aid responded to nearly 2,000 emergency calls, supplementing the work of Lakewood EMS when needed. The organization also handles vehicle extrications and complex rescue situations and has assisted in wildfire responses and other major emergencies outside the township.

Officials in attendance included Lakewood Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller; Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein; Ocean County Sheriff Michael Mastronardy; and Lakewood EMS Chief Crystal Van de Zilver. Each paid tribute to the volunteers’ service and commitment.

During the ceremony, several members received special recognition. Heshy Fisher was named “Top Responder” after answering 585 calls in 2025. Seventeen additional volunteers were recognized for responding to more than 180 calls each during the year.

LFA Medical Director Matthew Letizia sponsored additional awards in connection with the organization’s annual “Gary Letizia Memorial Blood Drive,” held in memory of his father. More than 1,800 pints of blood were collected through the drive last year.

Other honors included the “Shining Light Award” to Yitzy Locker; the “Pillar of Service Award” to outgoing president Avi Snyder for seven years of leadership; and the “Emerging Leader Award” to rookie member Uri Tesser. The “Angel in Uniform Award” was presented to Ari Goldberger, Dovy Haber, and Ephraim Heisler for their teamwork and professionalism during a recent cardiac arrest resuscitation.

LFA Captain Yiddy Karmel praised the volunteers’ dedication, saying their professionalism and commitment serve as a model for modern volunteerism.

Lichtenstein noted that emergency response requires significant personal sacrifice from both volunteers and their families, adding that the township remains committed to supporting the organization with equipment and resources.

The organization also recently launched an “Associate Volunteer” program, which provides full coverage of Lakewood EMS calls on Sundays, allowing EMS staff members to spend the day with their families.

More information about Lakewood First Aid and volunteer opportunities is available at lakewoodfirstaid.org.