Unsung Hero Lisa Jacobson: Nanuet Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Volunteer

BY BARRY WARNER

The Nanuet Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary members have many responsibilities that aid the volunteer firefighters. They respond to fire calls to provide the firefighters with the liquids and nourishment needed to help maintain their strength and stamina, while they perform the difficult and dangerous duties of firefighting. They also assist the firefighters, the department and the community in any way they can, whether it is helping out at fire scenes, raising funds for any equipment they require or helping at community events. In addition, the members have come to the aid of many of the surrounding town’s fire departments when called upon.

President of the Nanuet Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Tara Jacobson said, “Lisa has chaired almost every fundraiser our organization has put together and has made each one a huge success. When Lisa puts her mind to achieving success, she always makes it happen. She has been a dedicated member of the community for more than half her life. When she is not dedicating her time to the Auxiliary, in her free time she helps raise money for war veterans by running fund raisers at the American Legion, as well as collecting donations from her many supporters.

“She brings baskets, gifts and other necessary items to the Veteran’s Hospital, as well as assists in the process of putting together an annual holiday party for veterans. As Lisa has dedicated her time to the community, the most remarkable aspect of her life is her ‘fighting spirit.’

“Being diagnosed with cancer in 2009 was a shock to her as well as her family. After having major surgery to remove a softball-sized tumor, as well as her kidney her strength came through. As she was going for her goal of being five year cancer-free, the tumor came back. Another surgery was needed to remove the tumor along with several other vital organs. As she remained in the hospital recovering for three weeks, she fought hard to get back on her feet. Now, cancer-free for one year, she still continues to persevere and dedicate her life to helping others.”

Lisa Jacobson told the Rockland County Times, “I am a three-time Past President of the Nanuet Ladies Auxiliary and have held every office except Treasurer. I have been a member for 36 years and our mission is to honor the service and sacrifice of our firefighters. We respond to fire calls, a Signal 13, to provide our firefighters with liquids and nourishment and means to sustain the well-being of fire personnel, enabling them to execute their duties.

“Each year our goal is to support and contribute to our Fire Department and community. Our Auxiliary has organized many fundraisers, such as spaghetti dinners, tricky trays, craft fairs, bake sales, Atlantic City trips and our current fundraiser paint and sip. We contribute to the Firemen’s Home and present a scholarship to a Nanuet High School student who is a volunteer Firefighter or Ambulance Corp. member.

“When I joined the Auxiliary, I was very young and joined mainly because it was a great place for socializing. As time went on, I realized I really enjoyed having a chance to give back to my community and making a difference to the people around me. The Nanuet Fire Department is like a family to me because my daughter Tara is the current president of our Auxiliary, my son David is a 15-year member of the Fire Department and will be Captain in February. I am grateful and honored to be part of this organization.”

If interested in joining the Nanuet Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, helping the volunteer firefighters and giving back to the community, contact President Tara Jacobson at ladiesaux@nanuetfd.org