Despite the numerous trucks and engines that serve the city, Car 26 responds to nearly every fire -- night and day. It's not the newest or most high tech rig, and it's not even officially run by the Fire Department itself.
Ask any Jersey City firefighter about Car 26.
Despite the numerous trucks and engines that serve the city, Car 26 responds to nearly every fire -- night and day. It's not the newest or most high tech rig, and it's not even officially run by the Fire Department itself.
What makes Car 26 unique is that it is operated by the Gong Club, which will celebrate its 65th anniversary this December.
The 31 dedicated members of the Gong Club put in countless hours each week to serve firefighters, fire victims, and other emergency service personnel of Hudson County by offering rehab and canteen services following fire calls.
"Our primary mission is to support the firefighters. It is our job to provide Gatorade, water, refreshments, and sometimes food to help the firefighters recover after a fire," Gong Club Chief Conni Spellman said. "Depending on the weather, their needs change, so it is up to us to help them get what they require, like glove warmers in the winter or misting fans in the summer."
Founded in 1950, the group of volunteers operates out of the former Jersey City fire headquarters downtown. The Bay Street headquarters is located between Erie Street and Newark Avenue on a block that is dedicated to Gong Club member Joseph Lovero, who died in the Sept. 11, 2011 terrorist attacks.
"Everything they do is entirely volunteer and while they don't often get recognized, their work makes an incredible difference in aiding our firefighters during some of the most difficult fires and providing relief to families who have been impacted," said Jersey City Fire Chief Darren Rivers.
Throughout its 65-year history, as the nature of firefighting has changed, so too has the Gong Club's approach to aiding firefighters and fire victims. Yet, as a nonprofit organization, the Gong Club is funded largely by a voluntary payroll deduction contribution from Jersey City firefighters. The group also relies on donations to purchase supplies and maintain Car 26, which was purchased in 2001.
"We've expanded our offerings to firefighters. In the beginning, we had crates of soda and coffee, but we've since moved on to offer healthier alternatives like water and Gatorade," Spellman said. "We also supply foods now, because firefighting often disrupts mealtimes. We have a stove in the car, so we can serve soup in the winter. We're always working to make a better experience for the firefighters."
The dedication of Gong Club members stems from deep ties to the firefighting community. Spellman's husband, Patrick, has been a member since 1982 and formerly served as the Gong Club Chief.
"The best part is seeing the smiles on the firefighters' faces -- it's so great to be able to help them out. You really get to make friendships and get close with them," Patrick Spellman said. "They absolutely love it."
Meanwhile, Conni Spellman pointed to the group's support of juvenile diabetes research and the March of Dimes, in addition to its participation in the Carlos Negron Memorial 5k Run in October, as ways the group has become a fixture in the community. Negron was a Jersey City firefighter killed in the line of duty in 1993 and was also a member of the Gong Club, she said.
To commemorate the 65th anniversary, the Gong Club is currently planning an event in December at Casino in the Park. It will celebrate the firefighters and members who have allowed it to grow and flourish.
Gong Club Treasurer Paul Schaetzle says he hopes that the organization will continue to grow in the future.
"In the past 25 years, we have had a steady membership. My biggest hope for the next 65 years is that the Gong Club will continue to get fresh blood," Schaetzle said. "Our members are getting older and we are always searching for younger people to volunteer their time and support these amazing firefighters."
Interested individuals should contact the Gong Club by emailing at gongclub@comcast.net or drop in during a Saturday night meeting.
As its anniversary approaches, it is clear that the Gong Club has carved out its place in the Jersey City community and is here to support local firefighters for 65 more years -- and beyond.