Charles James, a dedicated volunteer, was recognized as the Coral Springs-Parkland CERT Member of the Year

Coral Springs, Florida – Recently, Charles James helped at the scene of a significant house fire in the area.
He arrived before dawn and assisted in erecting tents with water, food, and cooling facilities to aid Coral Springs-Parkland firefighters in their fight against the fire.

“Because we’re frequently in remote areas, we gave them food, water, misting fans, and even a portable toilet,” James explained. “It simply gives you the impression that you’re making a significant contribution to the cause of protecting property and aiding those who labor in hazardous environments.”

In honor of the late Michael F. DiTocco, a fellow CERT member, he was named Coral Springs Parkland Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Member of the Year for his commitment to emergency response.

James has consistently attended emergency activations, public safety events, and disaster preparedness training since joining CERT in 2021.

He volunteered around 70 times in 2024 alone.

The head of the CERT program, Joseph Chalom, described him as “very outgoing, engaged, and contributes to the group.” “He is always there when assistance is needed—he volunteers at trainings, public education events, and emergency activations.”

Nearly 1,000 locals have graduated from Coral Springs’ CERT Academy since 2003.

As part of a nationwide program, the free training teaches locals about disaster medical operations, fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster preparedness.

James and other CERT members are trained volunteers who can help first responders in an emergency.

James claimed that he finds meaning in every volunteer moment, whether it is directing CPR lessons for kids, giving tours of CERT’s converted ambulance (also known as “the canteen”), or offering assistance in emergency locations.

James, a retired salesman who relocated from Northern Virginia to Coral Springs six years ago, joined CERT with the intention of helping his neighbors and learning how to protect his own family and house.

The 68-year-old believes that participating with CERT is about giving back, not simply aiding during emergencies.

“It’s nice to be able to help people and use your talents to support the community in times like these,” James remarked. “Being named CERT Member of the Year is an honor.”