District Governor Carl Hassett, born and raised in the Bronx, is very proud of his 20 year career with the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and was stationed in South Bronx, Ladder Co. #42; one of the busiest ladder companies in New York City responding to over 6,000 runs per year. Prior to his fire career, he acquired an Associate Degree in Automotive Technology. Upon joining (FDNY) he received a Masters in Fire Science along with several Class A Medals and Citations for Life Saving.
Carl joined the Mid-Bergen ROTARY club in 2007 where his wife Yvonne already belonged. His belief in "Service Above Self" from his fire profession became a wonderful fit with Rotary - he was giving back to the community again. He became President of Mid-Bergen in 2011-2012. In 2011, Carl along with fellow club member PDG Calisto Bertin, founded the Military Family Assistance Center (MFAC) and the actual center food pantry began in the basement of Carl and Yvonne’s business. Military Family Assistance Center began in Bergen County and expanded to Paterson the following year.
Carl became club President 2012-2013 and joined the district in the outstanding and critical response to Super Storm Sandy. Carl served as District Secretary 2013-2014 for PDG Lenny Agrusti. Carl and Lenny, both First Responders, developed and presented “CPR Anytime” which led to State Educators’ mandate requiring High School Seniors take “CPR Anytime” in order to graduate.
