Congratulations! Between September 28, 2017 and February 8, 2018, the individuals below advanced to the following EMT certification levels:

Tell us about your nonprofit background.
I started in nonprofit development work right out of college at WHRO, first as a volunteer, then in a paid role. Early on, I was in awe of how nonprofits worked from behind-the-scenes, and the satisfaction of the work itself is immense. After gaining experience in public broadcasting in both Virginia and New York, I joined the team at ACCESS College Foundation where I enjoyed 10 years leading the Development department and working to raise money so low-income children could receive a post-secondary education. I hold a certificate in nonprofit management and was honored to be chosen as Executive Director for the Va. Beach Rescue Squad Foundation.

Why are you excited about working with the Volunteer Rescue Squads?
The entire EMS system in Virginia Beach is such a tremendous asset. We are incredibly fortunate to have it, and I see what it means to Hampton Roads. I want the whole community to see it as the asset it is, and to help keep it thriving by donating, advocating for it or volunteering their time.

You could feel the pride and appreciation all over Virginia Beach’s highest peak and most popular park last spring. Rock the Squads achieved the goal of the principal sponsors – the City of Virginia Beach and its Department of EMS, Sentara Healthcare and the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad Foundation – to thank the thousand men and women who provide free emergency medical care and transport. And the volunteers felt it.

RTS2 will be Sunday, May 20, from Noon to 4:00 p.m. at Mount Trashmore.

By Joel Rubin

The best time to meet the most volunteer EMTs at any station is around 6:00 p.m., when the day shift checks out and the overnight one checks in.

At Station 9 I met Katie East and Dan Russell, who both have run rescue for nearly six years and are partners most nights. “I get to hang out with my best friend,” says Dan, a Tallwood High grad and, like his buddy, an employee at LifeNet. Katie, a Kellam High alum, has EMS in her veins. Her father was with the VB squad, her mom Ocean Park’s. “I love to give back to the community just like they did,” says Katie. The pair had little time to talk, out the door quickly to respond to call one on this Friday evening.