Yossi Brander, a local firefighter and EMT, is preparing to participate in a specialized program with the Emergency Volunteers Project (EVP), an organization that trains firefighters from around the world and prepares them to assist emergency services in Israel during times of need.

Brander serves as a firefighter with the Lakewood Volunteer Fire Department, Pleasant Plains Fire Department, and Woodridge Fire Department. He is also a volunteer EMT with Pleasant Plains First Aid Squad and a paid EMT with Lakewood EMS.

A former yeshiva student in Israel, Brander spent time learning there and is looking forward to returning in a different capacity—combining his background in emergency services with an opportunity to help protect and support communities across Israel.

The Emergency Volunteers Project provides advanced training to firefighters and emergency responders while maintaining a network of trained volunteers who can be called upon to assist Israel during major emergencies, including wildfires, wars, natural disasters, and other incidents that require additional manpower. The training prepares participants to operate alongside Israeli emergency personnel and respond effectively if called upon in the future.

“One of the things that attracted me to EVP is that it’s not just about training,” Brander said. “The goal is to build a network of firefighters who are ready to assist Israel when needed. The training prepares us for that mission while also giving us valuable skills that we can bring back to our own departments and communities.”

Israel’s emergency services have developed unique expertise through decades of experience responding to complex incidents and large-scale emergencies. Participants gain exposure to specialized firefighting tactics, emergency management techniques, and operational strategies that can benefit first responders both in Israel and in the United States.

Brander hopes to use the knowledge and experience gained through the program to better serve the communities that rely on him as both a firefighter and EMT in the US.

Participation in the program is self-funded, with costs including airfare, lodging, training, equipment, and other program expenses. Community members who would like to support Brander’s participation and help offset those costs are invited to contribute here.

By supporting the effort, donors are helping a local first responder prepare for a program dedicated to assisting Israel during times of need while bringing valuable training and experience back to the communities he serves here at home.