Foundation
The Glassy Mountain Fire Foundation
Who Are We?
The Glassy Mountain Fire Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to support the operations of the Glassy Mountain Fire Service Area. Its board of directors are the elected fire commissioners who serve the GMFSA.
What Do We Do?
The Foundation provides funding for several programs that are not fundable through the operating budget. These programs were implemented at the request of our citizenry and provide life-saving services.
- Recruitment and Retention Programs – These programs have proven successful in attracting and retaining volunteer personnel. Volunteers are incentivized to earn certifications, return for critical calls, and participate in training. Because of the critical need for emergency medical personnel, these incentives have been extended to career firefighters to incentivize recruitment and to provide longevity with current personnel.
- Paid on Call Programs – The Foundation provides a stipend for volunteers within the district who commit themselves for a period of time during the day to respond to critical calls. For approximately $1.00/hour trained personnel are ready to respond. Volunteers frequently arrive first on scene because of their home’s proximity to the call.
- Medical Training – The Foundation provides personnel an opportunity to increase their medical training through an agreement to serve the district for a designated period of time. These funds also provide current personnel with the necessary equipment and supplies to conduct regular reviews of skills.
- Medical Equipment – The medical services provided by the GMFSA are done without cost to the citizen. This allows any citizen who is facing a medical emergency to receive care. The GMFSA Foundation provides medications, personal protective equipment, and other necessary supplies for day-to-day care. The Foundation has also provided AEDs, LifePac 15 Cardiac Monitors, and a LUCAS device so that the GMFSA community and its visitors may receive the best of care
- Other Special Projects – The Foundation has often funded other special projects that enhance the operations of the GMFSA such as Thermal Imaging Equipment and Extrication Equipment.
Why Is The Foundation Necessary?
In our rural district, the GMFSA is the first response to all fire and medical calls. Over 60% of their approximately 800 calls are medical-related each year. As an Advanced Life Support- Paramedic agency, the support of the Foundation is crucial to provide medical equipment and supplies, as well as, maintain experienced medical responders.
How Can You Help?
Tax Deductible Gifts:
- Annual Contribution Campaign - The Fire Foundation has one annual Contribution Campaign. Through the generous gifts of district residents, it has met its goal for the past couple of years.
- IRA Donation – Many residents provide an annual gift with the proceeds of their Individual Retirement Accounts. People who are age 70 ½ or older can contribute up to $100,000 from their IRA directly to a charity and avoid paying income taxes on the distribution.
- Estate Planning – Consider The Fire Foundation in your estate planning. What better legacy to leave behind than ensuring the provision of life-saving services to your friends and neighbors.
Thank you for considering the Glassy Mountain Fire Foundation in your charitable giving. Every gift goes toward ensuring that our community has the quality care it deserves.
