Arrowsmith SAR has a goal of generating about $60,000 to reach it's annual fundraising goal. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

fundraising campaign

New Arrowsmith SAR fundraising campaign set to improve safety & bolster bottom line

Feb 5, 2023 | 6:09 AM

QUALICUM BEACH — Buying a pair of new vehicles and paying down its mortgage headline the to-do list for Arrowsmith Search and Rescue’s annual fundraising campaign.

The agency’s Rescue Ready effort intends to generate $100,000 this year, with more than $40,000 already committed for the campaign.

Ken Neden, who serves as a manager for the non-profit organization, said they have bought one used truck and look to purchase another to broaden their response capabilities.

“Having these two vehicles with members nearby that can get to them very quickly if needed, our response time is greatly improved which really makes a difference, especially in life-threatening rescues.”

An existing rescue truck will be relegated to support vehicle status, while both trucks to be integrated into the fleet will be customized with shelving, sirens and other features, Neden said.

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Arrowsmith SAR is also looking to chip away at the mortgage for its home base located near Qualicum Beach Airport.

Neden said $180,000 remains on the mortgage of their new headquarters.

He credited financial contributions from the public, local governments, a provincial gaming grant and financing from Coastal Community Credit Union for putting the critical project over the top.

“The community support and grants have really made a huge difference in being able to provide excellent rescue services to the community.”

Arrowsmith SAR’s vastly expanded and modernized facility opened in 2021 at a cost of $1.2 million.

Neden said they’re hoping to wipe out their mortgage in the next three to five years.

Donations to Arrowsmith SAR’s Rescue Ready campaign can be made here.

The agency responded to 45 local call-outs last year, ranging from injured and lost hikers, ATV accidents and urban missing person searches.

Arrowsmith SAR covers the eastern portion of Vancouver Island from Deep Bay to just north of Lantzville, while also responding to mutual aid tasks elsewhere on Vancouver Island.

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