BEDFORD-STUYVESANT VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE CORPS HONORED FOR 37 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH A VIBRANT BLOCK PARTY – GREENE AVE. BETW. MARCUS GARVEY BLVD. & LEWIS AVE.
On July 12, 2025, the Bedford-Stuyvesant Volunteer Ambulance Corps (BSVAC) marked their 37th anniversary with a block party that was full of excitement and joy! Held at the intersection of Greene Avenue and Marcus Garvey Boulevard, next to the now iconic site of the BSVAC command center, the event brought neighbors, community leaders, and supporters together to celebrate the extraordinary history of BSVAC as well as the strength and unity of the local community.
Top photo: Exceptional Volunteerism Award recipients Edward Fernandez at right, and Felipe Padilla at left stand with BSVAC officials. Photo: Pojanee Fleury
The Legacy of BSVAC
Founded in 1988, BSVAC is a vital pillar of emergency medical service in Bed-Stuy. This all-volunteer organization was born out of a commitment to addressing the critical need for timely and culturally competent emergency care in a historically underserved area. Founder James “Rocky” Robinson, who tragically witnessed his niece pass away while waiting for an ambulance, envisioned a community that would help each other and 37 years later with currently over 100 volunteers who have dedicated themselves to providing lifesaving services, his vision is not only alive but thriving. BSVAC has recently expanded to provide services to Crown Heights and Brownsville and increased its fleet to 5 ambulances. Through its work, BSVAC provides trust, connection, and lifelines to individuals who might otherwise be left unsupported during emergencies.
Highlights from the Block Party
This year’s block party offered family fun, community resources, and free health screenings. Live performances by local artists and bands filled the streets with diverse and energetic music, reflecting the neighborhood’s rich cultural legacy. Children were drawn to the family-friendly activities, which included face painting, balloon animals, and a bouncy castle.
As the day progressed, tributes, recognition and promotions became a moving highlight of the celebration. A special presentation honored longtime BSVAC volunteers who have dedicated years of service, including the Dispatcher, EMT and Volunteerism of the Year Awards.
Expressions of gratitude filled the air as speakers praised BSVAC not only for their record of saving lives, but also for nurturing unity and pride within the community, including Mayor Eric Adams attended the event, showing his continued support of the important work of the BSVAC. His presence highlighting the importance of collaboration and ongoing investment in resources to ensure that groups like the BSVAC can continue their lifesaving work.
D.J. Hard Hittin’ Harry
Among those that were promoted and recognized was BSVAC Lieutenant Amy Dorfman, who was promoted to Captain. She said, “It marks 37 years of service and we look forward to serving the community for 37 more and beyond.” Captain Dorfman expressed how good it felt to see community members come out to mark this special time with BSVAC. “They know us and have a strong connection [to our mission], many of our volunteers are from the Bed-Stuy area.”
The 37th Anniversary Block Party was more than just an occasion to honor BSVAC’s achievements; it was a celebration of Bed-Stuy’s resilience and the enduring spirit of service that defines the neighborhood. BSVAC’s 37 years of service serves as a powerful reminder of the crucial role that volunteer organizations have in building and sustaining thriving communities.
