The Class of ’69 selected Dartmouth Emergency Medical Services (DEMS) as the Fiscal Year 2024 recipient of our annual philanthropy award to a student created and run organization. We donated $10,000 to the group to help fund their purchase of a new vehicle to carry their trained EMTs and their equipment to emergency calls.
Current year Director of Training Giulia Barbella and Executive Director Grace Cason received the check, along with a pint-size emergency vehicle with a working siren and flashing lights, at the October 2023 ’69 Coming Home weekend.
Current year Director of Training Giulia Barbella and Executive Director Grace Cason received the check, along with a pint-size emergency vehicle with a working siren and flashing lights, at the October 2023 ’69 Coming Home weekend.
DEMS typically responds to about 200 calls a year, with an average response time of three minutes. Common calls involve intoxication, head injuries, mental health issues and sexual assault. Responding to a question about the calls they found most moving or meaningful, Giulia and Grace mentioned that mental health calls were among the most rewarding, and that victims of sexual assault were often comforted by the rapid and empathic responses the EMTs provide.
The Hanover Police and Fire Departments benefit from DEMS services. Over half of the calls do not require transport to the hospital. In those cases, the fire department does not have to respond, so its ambulance service remains available in case of other emergencies. DEMS is available to respond to calls within the community as well as those on campus.
Like earlier vehicles the group has owned, the one they used in the 22-23 year required frequent and costly maintenance. It ultimately broke down completely. This school year DEMS has had to lease vehicles to maintain operation. With our gift and other funding, they will be able to acquire a late model, low mileage vehicle with the required siren and emergency lights.
Peter Elias’ photos of the presentation, other ComingHome events, Ravine Lodge and Moosilauke are available at
https://pheski.smugmug.com/Dartmouth/Homecoming-2023-Ravine-Lodge-Moosilauke/i-Qw75D4D