In a move to boost community engagement and volunteerism in Middletown, officials have announced an unprecedented incentive program: a $10,000 reward for its most helpful Middletown residents.
The initiative stands out as a unique attempt to recognize and incentivize community service by offering a substantial monetary reward as the township aims to encourage more residents to actively participate in volunteer activities and community improvement projects.
The $10,000 Question: Who Qualifies?
The incentive is for residents who decide to volunteer their time as a first responder, such as a firefighter or emergency medical technician. What’s not clear or hasn’t been announced yet is if any of the following parameters need to be met:
- Number of volunteer hours contributed
- Variety of community services performed
- Impact of volunteer work on Middletown
- Consistency and longevity of community involvement
The “Perks”:
⚫ $10,000 toward a down payment on a home (forgiven through enough volunteer hours)
⚫ $500 yearly property tax reimbursement
⚫ Exemption from some township fees, such as free parking at the Middletown Train Station and permits
Community Reaction
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry told New Jersey 101.5: “These individuals give so much to our town. Every Middletown resident should know that the fire department, EMS, and our OEM are ready to act at a moment’s notice today. When you look at the cost to implement any type of paid service, it is undoubtedly going to be more expensive … than it is to implement simple changes like we are here in Middletown.”
As this program unfolds, it will be interesting to see its impact on community engagement and volunteerism in Middletown. If the program is successful, it could serve as a model for other towns in Monmouth County and beyond in the state.
Middletown official say that the “perks” will go into effect starting in January 2025.
The Middletown site is currently taking applications for the rewards program. If you’re interested in applying, fill out your information, you never know, it could be your time to shine!
