This month, we shine a light on one of Montgomery EMS’s inspiring volunteers, Celine Ressouche Awotar. Celine is not just a devoted EMT; she’s also a mother to a young boy and holds a demanding full-time job. Yet, every Friday evening, she dedicates five hours to serving the community, responding to medical emergencies and making a real difference in people’s lives.
“Moving to the United States from France about two years ago was a big change for my family,” Celine shares. “We settled in Montgomery, and it was during a community event in the spring of 2023 that I learned about the all-volunteer EMS squad. I was truly amazed to discover that so many people here give their time to help others in need.”
“If you’ve ever thought about giving back to the community, this is an amazing way to do it.”
With a background as a nurse in France, Celine felt a natural pull toward first aid. “Joining Montgomery EMS just made sense to me,” she explains. “I knew I wanted to be part of that army of volunteers making a difference.” Despite the busy demands of being a mother and working full-time, Celine pursued her EMT training and successfully earned her New Jersey certification, as well as her National EMT Registry credentials.
Volunteering has been rewarding for Celine on multiple levels. “The support from the squad has been incredible,” she says. “The people you meet, the lives you touch—it’s an experience unlike any other.” For Celine, her volunteer work has been an opportunity to integrate into her new community, grow as a person, and provide care and comfort to those who need it most.
Montgomery EMS is always looking for new volunteers, and Celine hopes her story will inspire others—particularly women who might have some extra time during mornings or afternoons—to join. “If you’ve ever thought about giving back to the community, this is an amazing way to do it. The difference you can make is truly profound,” she says.
