Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad Launches Public Fundraising Campaign

The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad officially launched its public fundraising campaign Tuesday morning with a breakfast meeting hosted by Summit Mayor Ellen Dickson.

The squad hopes to raise $5 million to replace its half-century old building. In September, the Summit City Council unanimously gave its approval to the squad to move forward with its plans to replace its current but outdated facility. Groundbreaking on the new building, to be constructed in the same location, will take place in spring 2014. 

Squad President John Christmann said the official kick-off was well-attended by many civic organizations including the YMCA, The Connection and the Rotary Club as well as by members of local churches. The squad is asking community groups to help spread the word about the ongoing effort that will assist the all-volunteer organization better serve the community.

Christmann said while the breakfast marked the official start to the public phase of fundraising, the squad is coming from a position of strength, having already raised $3.8 million. Christmann was quick to credit fundraising team, former Mayor Jordan Glatt and Other Fellow First Foundation's Brett Haire, for that achievement as well as investors Bank for its continued support. 

"We really want the community's involvement because we're all part of the community; we all live here and we're all volunteers," Christmann explained. "We're not part of the City, that's something many don't realize. People assume that tax dollars pay for this; that's not the case."

In his September presentation before the council, Christmann described the current building's deficiencies which include insufficient garage space to house existing vehicles, bays that are not tall enough to accommodate modern ambulances, structural damage that is beyond repair, lack of sleeping quarters, insufficient storage, and inadequate decontamination facilities needed to meet today’s standards for blood-borne pathogens and other hazardous materials.

Local businesses will host upcoming events in support of the squad. Supper With Santa, with three seatings at 4 p.m., 5 p.m., and 6 p.m., will be held on Sunday, Dec. 15 at the Summit Diner to benefit the squad. Check back with Patch for additional details on this and other events. 

For more information about the Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad’s capital campaign, building plans, volunteer opportunities, and the many ways to support and contribute to this life-saving organization, visit the squad's website.