Unlike the township’s fire department, the Plainsboro Rescue Squad does not rely on taxes to support its operation.
By Jennifer Kohlhepp, Staff Writer
PLAINSBORO — Unlike the township’s fire department, the Plainsboro Rescue Squad does not rely on taxes to support its operation.
The squad’s budget amounts to $160,000 and relies on a $60,000 donation from the township, which is not guaranteed, and donations from the people of Plainsboro, according to Chief Brian Gould.
To try to earn enough money for the budget, the squad sends out mailers to residents as well as survey letters to people it has transported. The squad also hosts fundraising events.
”The goal this year is to have a fundraising event,” President Matt Coder said. “We’ve done art auctions in the past but it’s been years since we’ve done one.”
The squad is also considering a formal dinner or a 5K fundraiser.
Plainsboro Rescue Squad currently has 70 members, of which 35-40 regularly ride. Last year, the squad answered 750 calls.
”We’re always looking for new members,” Chief Gould said.
Those seeking membership have to fill out an application and go through an interview process, which includes a background check and working nights with the established crews. While working, a potential new member is evaluated and then has to be recommended to squad leadership for a position. The member also has to get emergency medical technician (EMT) certification by passing one semester of classes.
”Plainsboro is unique because becoming an EMT is not enough,” Chief Gould said. “You have to get approval from three crew chiefs to be considered an EMT on a crew.”
President Coder, who joined the squad a year and a half ago and became president in 2014, said, “That’s how this organization works. If you’re involved, there’s a lot of responsibility you can pick up right away.”
Besides the lights and sirens, President Coder said he likes being a part of a community of people on the squad who are close friends who help each other out.
”We do for each other,” Chief Gould added.
”We also help people in a tangible way in their most dire situations,” President Coder said.
While the squad looks to recruit and retain volunteer members, it also has to find ways to raise the money it needs to keep its trucks and equipment in operating order.
”One is in excess of 11 to 12 years old and the maintenance on it is very expensive,” Chief Gould said.
The squad also needs a new parking lot, according to Chief Gould.
”That’s upwards of $50-$100,000 to replace that,” Chief Gould said. “I don’t know when we’ll ever be able to afford that.”
Chief Gould said that most people don’t know how the rescue squad is funded and do not realize that the squad does not collect tax money.
The Plainsboro Rescue Squad is a nonprofit charitable entity funded entirely by voluntary contributions from individuals and organizations. Everything from the ambulances, to uniforms, bandages and oxygen is paid for by these donations.
The squad does not and has never charged for service, President Coder said.
The squad has been staffed entirely by volunteers since 1974. Donations makes it possible for the squad to continue its mission to help people who live, work or do business in Plainsboro.
”We’re the first people to be generous and give for others but we’re the worst when it comes to asking for things,” Chief Gould said.
To learn more about the Plainsboro Rescue Squad or to make a donation, visit www.plainsbororescuesquad.org/doku.php.

