The Bedford-Stuyvesant Volunteer Fire Corporation has been providing the area with fast service for more than 18 years.

Started by former EMS workers Captain James Robinson and Specialist Joe Perez in 1988, the fire company responds to at least 100 calls a month. Volunteers say the average response time is less than four minutes. Officials say it is the nation?s first minority-run volunteer fire corp.

Robinson says the group has about 47 full-time members, but is always looking for additional help. More information is available by calling 718-453-4617.