He used to fix elevators in New York City. But John McGuire of Manchester figured out ways to keep things running in his own community as well, and it's earned him the respect of township officials.

(L-R) Manchester Patrolman Douglas Higgins, John McGuire, Regional Day School Transition Coordinator Renee Agro, PBA Local 246 President Paul Bachovchin (Manchester PD)
(L-R) Manchester Patrolman Douglas Higgins, John McGuire, Regional Day School Transition Coordinator Renee Agro, PBA Local 246 President Paul Bachovchin (Manchester PD)
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For decades, McGuire's been a driving force in support of the Police Department, Police Athletic League, Municipal Alliance and the schools, according to officials who have accorded him special recognition.

"John has been a pillar of the community for more than 20 years," Chief Lisa Parker said in a prepared statement. "He's always looking for ways to help out, whether that means offering his time to mentor children or donating funds to help purchase equipment that keeps our police officers safe," said Chief Lisa Parker.

It all started in the 1980s when he helped secure upgraded playing fields and snack bar space for Manchester's Little Leaguers, officials said, and it hasn't stopped.

"Whatever I could do, I'd try to do," McGuire said. "I feel good when I go home at the end of the day after doing something for the community."

In the past decade, McGuire's donated bullet-resistant vests and a wet suit to the police department, as well as a bugle for its honor guard and supplies for the annual Police Unity Tour bicycle excursion, officials said.

He also helps organize PBA Local 246's annual golf outing, which takes place May 4 this year, lends a hand to the yearly fundraising Penguin Plunge for Regional Day School, mentors Manchester Elementary students and founded a high school scholarship fund in memory of his late son, officials said.

"I just love working with kids. If you want to stay young, work with the kindergarteners to fifth graders," Mr. McGuire said.

And he's passing the baton to the next generation. McGuire's granddaughter Tess, a sixth-grader at Manchester Middle School, helped raise the money to buy a vest for Brick Township's police dog before a K-9 unit was formed in her hometown, and raised $500 for the Wounded Warrior Project.

McGuire takes no bows on his own, but his influence runs deep, according to PBA Local 246 President Paul Bachovchin. "Without his support,many important programs wouldn't thrive asthey do today," Bachovchin said.

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