Crawford County’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) 4th Annual Golf Outing is scheduled for Saturday, August 16th, at the M&M Golf Course in Manilla. Participants can start signing up and registering from 9:00 to 9:45 AM, with a tee-off time of 10:00 AM. It’s a four-person best-ball tournament, and the cost for a team is $300. With 15 teams already signed up and room for just five more, the outing is filling up fast. If you’re interested in signing up a team or becoming a sponsor, you can contact Cori Rayevich at 712-882-3744 or Makenzie Reis at 712-269-7077.
EMS Crews Provide Community Service
Emergency Medical Service personnel are the backbone of our community’s health and safety. The dedicated men and women of all the ambulance crews in Crawford County work tirelessly to provide critical care when it’s needed most. The EMS golf outing fundraiser is an opportunity to support their life-saving mission, promising a day of fun, community spirit, and a chance to give back.
Support of EMS Comes in Many Ways
Matthew Howland and Makenzie Reis, from the CCMH Ambulance Service, are quick to point out the golf outing is about more than just golf.
“For those who golf, it is a very fun day. Nonetheless, for those who want to support the cause without hitting the links, there are plenty of other opportunities. This year, the event includes a silent auction with a twist. We’re doing a battle of the baskets between the departments from Crawford County Memorial Hospital (CCMH). Many of the baskets will have themes and anyone who stops by during the golf outing can bid on the baskets.”
Other Opportunities for Donations
Howland said a number of sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses and individuals looking to contribute.
“A $250 hole sponsorship gets you a pin on a tee box. A $100 donation goes towards lunch or food. We would certainly welcome any cash or silent auction item donation of $50 or more. Every gift we receive in support of our efforts on behalf of EMS is greatly appreciated.”
Financing for Local Department Equipment and Education
The funds raised at this event are crucial for the continued growth and success of Crawford County’s EMS. As Howland pointed out, the money directly supports education and equipment.
“A lot of it’s going to go towards equipment that we can purchase to be used throughout the county for training. The goal is to improve the skills of responders and provide the community with the highest level of care possible. We’d also like to put a few more people through an EMT course which would help address the critical need for more EMS professionals in our county.”
Challenges in Recruiting Emergency Personnel
Reis acknowledged the challenges of recruiting and retaining EMS volunteers.
“A lack of volunteers is a problem that extends across the state of Iowa and the Midwest. I transitioned from a nursing career to EMS and find the emergency work I do very rewarding. We’re looking for people who want to give back to their community. EMS is a very fulfilling job. Giving back as an EMS volunteer to the community where you live, work, and have family is a powerful motivator.”
Time is Valuable
Howland agreed the time commitment for training and certifications can be a deterrent, but he believes the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.
“If you’re dedicated enough to help somebody in your community and want to make a difference, it’s the route to go. Becoming an EMS volunteer is an investment in yourself and your community, offering invaluable skills and the deep satisfaction of helping friends, neighbors, and relatives. You will always get back more than you put in.”
Sign Up or Sponsor!
As noted above, if you’re interested in signing up a team or becoming a sponsor, you can contact Cori Rayevich at 712-882-3744 or Makenzie Reis at 712-269-7077.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a silent auction enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to support a vital community service, the 4th Annual EMS Golf Outing is an opportunity to make a tangible difference.
