Volunteer Spotlight: Ryan Charrette

Name: Ryan Charrette
Title: EMT/Ext. Firefighter
Department Name: Wesley Chapel Volunteer Fire Department
Location: Waxhaw, NC

Why are you an NVFC member?
I am an NVFC member to fulfill a desire to be a part of a community which holds the core values of service to others. The NVFC represents a community of brothers and sisters with the same goal of serving their communities as well as supporting each other. The NVFC is a community of men and women of which I am proud to belong.

What is your occupation?
Volunteer Firefighter/EMT

Why are you a fire service volunteer?
I’ve always felt a calling to serving others. I began to answer this call by volunteering locally at various events, such as helping out at the local soup kitchen. The desire to serve only grew over time as I began to realize that I wanted to be on the front-line helping people in times of need; this is what led me to the fire service. I have since found that the fire service is much more than just an occupation where one just clocks in, gets their work done, and clocks out. No, the fire service consists of brothers and sisters interacting with each other in a number of capacities – the fire service is a family which holds the highest values of service, care, and support at its core. This is a family which I am proud to be a part of and will continue to uphold the same values.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?
2018

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
There are of course those moments on scene which never really seem to leave the mind, regardless of the severity of a call. However, the best moments working as a firefighter and EMS provider often take place at the station. Between community events and simply interacting with one another at the station, these are the memories which will stick forever.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
Wesley Chapel VFD has been able to make a number of lasting contributions to our community. Aside from the obvious emergency response related contributions, our department can be found at various events interacting with the public in a number of capacities. Of course the best of these moments are when younger kids wanting to themselves become firefighters one day get to interact with the members of our department and see the engines or ladder up close. The smiles we get are the best reward we get while working.

Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.