Ellenville First Aid & Rescue Squad was founded in 1955 by Eli Bernzweig, after moving back to his wife's hometown of Ellenville, NY. When Eli was made aware of Ellenville not having any first aid or emergency services in place for its citizens, he knew something had to change. He soon learned the village had no funds appropriated for training personnel and medical emergencies. Eli got to work on researching the logistics of forming an emergency services organization. For example, working with local and state police to devise a communication plan for emergency calls. In no time, Eli was making connections with other individuals and organizations that would only further is dream. Once the news got out that the Squad was fully operational,  the Ellenville First Aid & Rescue Squad began receiving emergency calls from various resources. Calls were received by Ellenville or State Police who then, relayed them to Charter member, Clyde Matthews of Matthews Pharmacy. First functioning out of donated garage space, donated fuel and funded soley by members themselves and community contributions. The success of this rescue squad has only grown since its formation. One man's dream and determination for change makes for a happy and safe community.