Instead, they’re chasing opportunities to bring positivity, fun and charitable support to their community.

Based in Warren, the North PA Ghostbusters is a fan-based community outreach and charity group inspired by the iconic Ghostbusters franchise. While the concept might be new to many in Warren County, similar “franchises” have existed across the globe for years, including teams in Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and Erie, all of which serve as friendly inspirations for the local crew.

“Despite being a fan my entire life, I only became aware of other teams in 2016, and I fell in love with the idea,” said the group’s founder Jason Halle. “It’s one of the few things where I feel like we can both have our cake and eat it, too. We can be fans of something we love and give back to the community at the same time.”

The group currently boasts six members, debuting in 2021 at the Warren Mall Cinema during the premiere of Ghostbusters: Afterlife. However, their journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, as a way to channel energy into something uplifting during a challenging time.

Photos submitted to the Times Observer Ghostbusters Across America MK. VII Map. While not the most up-to-date map, this iteration is a bit more clear and focused. It shows the active teams and their locations in North America. There are also teams in places such as Ireland, Great Britain, Germany, and even Japan.

From parades and trunk-or-treat events to Warren Pride and Toys for Tots, the North PA Ghostbusters have become recognizable figures at many local happenings. Their Ecto-inspired vehicle–a 1997 Cadillac hearse sourced from a funeral home in Illinois–has been customized and transformed into a showstopper, often joined by meticulously built gear made from a mix of purchased and modified parts.

Their mission? Keep things light hearted while supporting serious causes.

“Last year, we were able to donate roughly $1,000 to local charities, non-profits, and fundraisers,” Halle said, humbly admitting bookkeeping isn’t his strongest skill.

One of their most personal achievements was contributing to Toys for Tots – a favorite charity of the founder’s late father, who loved supporting the cause. While last year’s campaign had setbacks, the team has made valuable connections and is planning to make the 2025 toy drive bigger and better.

Their outreach includes educational programs as well. The team has made two appearances at Beaty-Warren Middle School, including assisting the Warren County Summer Music Program with a Ghostbusters-themed music video that garnered over 135,000 views online.

Photo submitted to the Times Observer The North PA Ghostbusters "Mooglie" (No-Ghost Symbol). The old blue and gold! Be it ever so humble, originally designed with the idea of a team that would cover "the rural north of Pennsylvania," we've mostly stuck to Warren County and Jamestown, especially with Erie answering the call, though we're not afraid to make out-of-jurisdiction calls on occasion!

They also participated in a movie night hosted by Family Services of Warren County last August.

The group draws inspiration from larger franchises, including the Buffalo Ghostbusters, who last year raised just shy of $45,000 for the Tunnels to Towers Foundation during their Ghostbusters Day event (which happens every year as close to June 8th as the weekend allows) in New York City–a cause supporting 9/11 survivors and their families.

“The big goal is just to do what we can to bring a bit of positivity to our hometown,” Halle said. “We’re firm believers that things can be tough enough on their own, and it’s the responsibility of our generation to show the importance of compassion, respect, and community outreach.”

2024 was a busy year for the North PA Ghostbusters, and 2025 is shaping up to be the same. Upcoming events include Jefferson DeFrees Family Center’s Touch-a-Truck and a fourth appearance at Warren Pride. As always, they are open to requests from community members and event organizers.

While they may not be catching ghosts, the North PA Ghostbusters are certainly capturing hearts.

Photo submitted to the Times Observer Nightscape Horror Festival, Jamestown NY Oct. 2024. Full Crew, in back from left to right, Scott Baxter, Jason Halle, Bill DeVlieger, "Wash," Spencer Cushner. In front, Justin McCracken and junior member Ruby McCracken.

“With such a small team, we can’t promise to make it to everything,” Halle noted, “but we’ll always try. If our presence can make someone smile, it’s all worth it.”