CASNR to participate in Giving Hearts Day

Now in their third year participating in Giving Hearts Day, Community Ambulance Service of New Rockford (CASNR) has set an ambitious goal to raise $30,000 during the event, 50% more than they raised each of the first two years. All funds will be put towards the purchase of a 4-wheel drive ambulance. Volunteer Sara Myhre said CASNR doesn't have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, and the volunteers are finding that it is increasingly important when responding to calls in rural areas, particularly in wintertime.

This past year the volunteers of CASNR weathered the COVID-19 storm, and the impact on their organization was noticeable. It was a tough year for recruitment, with no hands-on training available for new volunteers who needed certification. Filling the on-call slots was also a challenge, as several existing members in high risk populations didn't feel comfortable taking calls due to COVID-19 exposure concerns. The remaining volunteers were stretched thin with extra paperwork and longer call times. Following pandemic precautions, the average call takes three to four hours of volunteers' time, Myhre said, a sacrifice for many with families and full-time jobs. Fundraising and community outreach wasn't in the cards either, as monthly CPR classes and annual Lifesavers in the Park were all canceled due to the pandemic.

Amidst all that, Community Ambulance Service of New Rockford continues to provide prompt, professional emergency medical services to anyone within Eddy County's 644 square miles, as well as three townships in eastern Wells County. This Giving Hearts Day, show your appreciation for the vital role they play by making a donation.

There are several ways to give back:

• Write a check to Community Ambulance Service of New Rockford, date it Feb. 11, 2020, and mail to PO Box 246, New Rockford, N.D. 58356.

• Go online to http://www.givingheartsday.org. on Thursday, Feb. 11, click on the donate button and select Community Ambulance Service of New Rockford. Then follow the instructions to make a donation.

• Schedule a gift in advance. This year donors can conveniently schedule online donations anytime through Feb. 11. Scheduled donations will be processed for withdrawal on Feb. 13.

• If a smaller payment several times a year fits your budget better, or if you want to continue to support CASNR on a regular basis, consider a recurring gift! Schedule your monthly gift on the website. You can also make a one-time donation anytime during the year, as the website is live year-round.

• Give the gift of your time. CASNR is always in need of volunteers, from CPR drivers and EMRs to EMTs and more advanced medical providers. Training is available.

The community is invited to a soup and salad luncheon on Giving Hearts Day (Thursday, Feb. 11) from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Community Ambulance building. A free will offering will be taken, and attendees can register to win door prizes. All proceeds will be included in the Giving Hearts Day event total.

Take out is available for those who don't feel comfortable dining in. Call 947-2355, and the volunteers will plate up meals and have them ready for pickup.