Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation

Message on the Passing of Chairman Dick West

It is hard to imagine Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation without Dick West at the helm as our chairman, directing the agenda and conversation with ease and a warm smile. Dick was astute and able to carefully help others see the best course of action in order to accomplish the most with the resources we had. At times, when there were debates, all ideas were welcomed and skillfully redirected by Dick, when necessary, leaving all of us able to fully participate, and contemplate all sides to a discussion in order to make sound decisions. Each of us has a story about how he helped us individually as though he were a father helping his son or daughter reach their best potential. It is often said that a true leader brings people, some of us just ordinary, to act in an extraordinary way. For several of us, our service on other community boards was bolstered by the unwavering support Dick confidently gave to us. Dick could look at the talent each of us has and gently nudge us in a direction that allowed us to grow into that talent and take on the roll we were called to fill. We went from a foundation that was trying to accomplish much to one that has impacted the quality of help and care Kitsap County residents receive from Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue. Kathy Oliver, a board member of the foundation stated, “He was truly a man who dedicated his entire life to the fire service with great passion.”

With a precision honed by years of service as a first responder, a former Fire Chief and as a Fire Commissioner, he conveyed the capabilities and needs of Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue to the board of directors for CK Medic One Foundation. As a result, we direct our talents to bring in resources and funds to purchase needed equipment and training materials. As individuals, from one serving on the board, to someone having received care, gratefully giving to Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue through our Foundation, he enabled us to lend aid to another, even though we aren’t that firefighter carrying someone out of a burning building or that EMT or Paramedic opening an airway and starting an IV. Just as Dick was able to help shape Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue into the professional service it is today, he helped to develop Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation into an efficient and caring group of individuals who could do greater things together. As Marcie Wakefield, a current member of the Foundation stated, “he noticed I always commented on the web page and was so supportive of CKFR!” He kept in touch with her and eventually she joined the board of directors, it was that easy for Dick to find dedicated and interested people to work on the board of directors.

Dick West’s leadership has deeply shaped the service and communication of Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation through diligent fostering of an essential relationship between the Foundation and Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue. He was able to care for the Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue family, Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation and the public in immeasurable ways. Kathy Earl, another current board member of CK Medic One Foundation stated that she recalls how welcoming and thoughtful Dick was in commending a firefighter who was receiving a well-earned award, but also recognized the sacrifice and support he/she received from family, especially that of the spouse. Dick’s passing will be profoundly felt for a long time to come. His legacy of leadership, service and mentorship will live on and continue to impact our Kitsap community. Kathy Oliver puts it well in stating “Grief is the price we pay for love and I know there are many who loved him dearly and are grieving the loss of such a great man. I will miss his crooked smile and dry sense of humor.” We will miss Dick’s boisterous jocularity and passion for serving and of course are grateful individuals for having known Dick West and were blessed by the little time we spent with him.

Obituary - R. E. "Dick" West

Please click here to download the obituary.

COVID-19 Update from the CK Medic One Foundation

On April 7 2020, by a unanimous vote, CK Medic One Foundation supported a $10,000 donation to CKFR for purchasing PPE protection for all first responders, EMT’s, Paramedics, and Firefighters. The foundation recently received a very generous donation from a former firefighter’s estate. This donation has provided us the opportunity to help our own department – just in time. Sometimes it’s the simple things, like a protective mask that can make a difference between life and death. We, the Board members of the Foundation, are honored and humbled to be of support.

A big KUDO’S to board members Amanda Lancheros and Virginia Kasper. Both are going above and beyond to support the needs of communities fighting against COVID19 virus.

Amanda, a local ER nurse is currently fighting on the front lines in NYC at one of the busiest Trauma Centers in the country. Amanda indicated, the center is receiving three times more patients daily than beds available. Many nurses/ healthcare providers from out of area are stepping up to support the exhausted local staffs. Our thoughts, prayers and best wishes go out to our friend Amanda and all who are out the fighting together on the front lines. In case you didn’t see this already, here is an article in the Kitsap Sun about our own Amanda Lancheros’ ongoing adventures in New York.

Virginia is putting her skill set to work locally and working directly with CKFR Chief Oliver and Deputy Chief Sorenson to supply the ever-popular fabric masks for the first responders, these will be in addition to the donation purchases, and will be reusable.

These are very challenging times and the foundation would like to send out our wishes to all, stay safe, healthy and at a distance physically but not emotionally. Support your local first responders and essential personal. All of the people who are out there each day, trying to keep things going is our new normal.

The foundation always accepts donations and is currently participating in the Kitsap Great Give Campaign. Early donations for the Kitsap Great Give are being accepted now or mark your calendar to donate on April 21, 2020 which is a 24 hour day of giving. Funds contributed to the foundation are increased by pool donations from sponsors, so maximize your donations and visit www.kitsapgreatgive.org and support Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation. As a community we are stronger together. Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation

The purpose of the Medic One Foundation, founded in 1996, is to provide supplemental funding for emergency medical services that are performed by Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue (CKFR).

For a copy of our Strategic Plan click here.

FUNDING
Although property taxes are Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue’s primary funding source, often times the budget cannot cover the additional expense of acquiring special equipment that our Paramedics need. This is where the Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation comes in. Annually, the Foundation considers needs from a “Wish List” provided by Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue. The foundation board selects the unfunded items to be sponsored then raises funds to acquire the items. Purchases are paid for through donations received from both individuals and businesses. We also receive funding from additional sources such as the generous monthly contributions contributed through CKFR payroll deductions as well as from bequests and other gifts.

WHO MAKES UP THE BOARD?

Community Leaders
Professionals in the fields of Medicine and Finance
Experts in CKFR functions
Community Volunteers

These board members are not paid, but rather donate their time and efforts. We have very low overhead costs and meeting space is provided by CKFR.

Board Bios

R.E “Dick” West, Chair
Retired, CKFR Fire Chief -20 years/40+ years of Fire Service. Currently in 1st elected term as Fire Commissioner of CKFR.

I helped form the CKFR Medic One Foundation in 1995, as a method for supporters to make tax deductible donations in support of EMS services. I have been an active member of the foundation for 11 years.”

My outside interests consist of travel, primarily to warmer climates, visiting friends and family , and spending as much time as possible with Grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Amanda Lancheros, Vice Chair
Board Certified Emergency Nurse

I was born and raised in Kitsap County and started working as an Emergency department nurse in 2010. I work daily with the crews from Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue. In 2019 I was asked to attend a CK Medic One Foundation meeting to see if I would be a good fit for them. It has been a pleasure to volunteer my time to help support Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue to provide exceptional care to this community.

My outside interests include traveling with my husband, working on home improvement projects and spending time with my family.
Virginia Kasper, Grant Writer
Wood Worker/Custom Wood Furniture Maker for over 16 years

In 2010, my friend Ted Anderson, a former Fire Commissioner and then a member of the CKM1 board of directors, knew I liked to do volunteer work and suggested I look into the CKM1 Foundation. I was impressed with the mission of improving the care of patients that are helped by CKFR Emergency Medical services and thought that my scientific/grant writing skills could be useful for that mission.

I enjoy spending time with family, remodeling, wood working, water color and mixed media art work, stained glass, gardening, cooking, shopping and travel.
Kim Peterson, Treasurer
Kitsap Bank Branch Manager- 30+ years in the banking industry

In 2011, I was approached to join the CK Medic One Foundation. I was excited to be part of a board that has the ability to help the Central Kitsap Community. I use my expertise in banking to provide financial support to the foundation.

My outside interests include Silverdale Rotary, reading, bike riding and watching my kids play a multitude sports.
Dr. Mark Eisenberg, Secretary
Board Certified Emergency Physician (M.D.)

In 2006, when my tenure as the EMS Medical Program Director for Kitsap County was almost complete, I was asked to join the CK Medic One Foundation. The board of the Foundation was re-forming after a period of inactivity. I have had a long time interest in first aid, pre-hospital emergency medical services, and emergency medicine. At the time, I was also living in CKFRs jurisdiction and it seemed like a good fit for my interests, knowledge, and desire to provide community service.

My outside interests include computers and technology, dabbling in photography and spending time at home with my wife.
Carrie Murphy, Communications Director
Kitsap Bank Mortgage Loan Officer-30+ in mortgage banking industry

In 2013, I was approached by a friend and fellow board member to attend a meeting. After a few meetings, I really felt the significance of the foundations mission and was eager to participate in whatever capacity necessary. I had a small amount of experience in communications and was asked to fill the position. I am proud of the work and funds that the foundation has provided to our Medics and the community through improved patient care.

My outside interests consist of spending time with my family (especially my granddaughters) and researching new and interesting recipes to execute in my sanctuary (the kitchen) which generally culminates into a great family gathering.
Kathy Oliver, Board Member
30+ years in Medical field as an RN, Retired

During my career of over 30 years, I worked as a Trauma ICU RN and as a member of a Trauma team at a Level 1 Trauma Center. I was also a Hospital Nursing Supervisor.

After retiring from the health profession and still possessing a passion for EMS and trauma, it felt natural to continue my civic responsibility by serving on the board of CK Medic One Foundation. I joined CK medic one board on 2017.

My outside interests are family and travel. I have 4 grown children and 7 grandchildren that I love spending time with.

My husband John and I love to travel the world extensively.

We were married in Fiji and have enjoyed travels which include the South Pacific, Mexico, Europe and the Caribbean.
Kathy Earle, Board Member
30+ years as an RN

I am an RN at Kaiser Permanente Clinic in Silverdale, formerly Group Health, working as a chronic Disease Manager and doing diabetic education in family practice.

Being on the CK Medic One Foundation gives me an opportunity to give back to the community and help to support emergency medical services through fund raising. I joined the board in 2017.

I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter at our Mason Lake cabin. My outside interests consist of gardening, reading and travel.

Partners

We received our first grant December 14, 2012 from Puget Sound Energy Foundation. Since that time, we have received gracious support in the form of grants from the following organizations:

Key Bank Foundation
Kitsap Bank
Lucky Seven Foundation
MDU Resources
Port Madison Enterprises
Puget Sound Energy Foundation
Rotary Club of East Bremerton
Rotary Club of Silverdale
Suquamish Tribe
The Norcliffe Foundation

In addition, donations have been received from the following community organizations and clubs:

Silverdale Chamber of Commerce
Glass Odyssey Corvette Club

We also have partnered with the following businesses that support our Foundation with a portion of the proceeds from your purchases:

GW Travel and Cruise – mention Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation when booking your vacation
AmazonSmile – choose Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation
Fred Meyer (Kroger) Community Rewards – choose Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation (ID # TP426)

Donations

PUTTING THE DONATIONS TO WORK
Over the past couple of years the Foundation has purchased and presented to the CKFR District a number of much needed items such as:

Five Video Laryngoscopes – Technologically advanced equipment used by EMT’s to open an airway of any individual in need of assistance and management of their breathing. This device allows the EMT to see the anatomy of the patient via specialized fiber optic visualization equipment, allowing for the accurate passing of a breathing tube into the lungs without causing trauma to the vocal cords and soft tissue of the throat.
An Intubation Head – A anatomically correct dummy head that is used for training purposes for correct intubation of patients. This head was specifically designed so that the Video Laryngoscopes use is more effective when it is needed in the field.
Five Ventilators – A Technologically advanced piece of equipment that is designed to mechanically move air in and out of a patient’s lungs that are unable to do so, or that are not breathing sufficiently enough on their own.
CO Oximeter – A device that measures carbon monoxide levels in both fire and EMS personnel and potential victims of CO (carbon monoxide) poisoning.
Stethoscopes – A state of the art stethoscope for each paramedic of the district, a tradition that has been going on since the mid 1990’s.
CPR Supplies – To maintain state of the art equipment.
CPAP Generators – For treatment of specific respiratory emergencies.
Four Reciprocating Rescue Saws – Needed to compliment the equipment on outlying fire engines for early access to trapped & injured persons involved in motor vehicle accidents.
Five Stair Chairs – Devices used by EMTs and Paramedics to safely carry patients down stairs or move them out of tight places where a standard gurney will not fit.

DONOR APPRECIATION

We have established a Recognition Plaque to honor and show appreciation for Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation Donors. The first donor to be recognized is a group, namely the CKFR Employee Community that donates to the Foundation through monthly payroll deductions. Our sincerest gratitude goes out to this group for its most generous support. Recognition has also been provided to Rick Harrington and his family as well as the West Family.

The 2013 recipient was the Puget Sound Energy Foundation
The 2012 recipient was the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce.

We thank everyone for the support!

The plaque is located in the lobby of the Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue Administration Building.

HOW TO CONTACT US
To inquire about any of the activities of the foundation please contact us through CFKR’s main desk at 360-447-3550 or email: [email protected].

HOW TO DONATE

To make a donation in your name, on behalf of a loved one or as a gift in someone elses name you may click the donate button below,

call 360-447-3550 or email: [email protected].

Donations are tax deductible* as the Foundation is a registered non-profit, tax exempt 501(c)3 organization with the IRS.

*Please consult your tax advisor regarding your personal tax situation.

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Contact the Medic One Foundation

Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation
5300 NW Newberry Hill Road, Silverdale, WA, 98383
ckfrdev721.wpengine.com 360.447.3550

“Supporting Emergency Medical Services for You”

Central Kitsap Medic One Foundation is an
IRS 501(c)3 charitable organization

The purpose of the Medic One Foundation, founded in 1996, is to provide supplemental funding for emergency medical services that are performed by Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue (CKFR).

Board Bios

R.E “Dick” West, Chair

Amanda Lancheros, Vice Chair

Virginia Kasper, Grant Writer

Kim Peterson, Treasurer

Dr. Mark Eisenberg, Secretary

Carrie Murphy, Communications Director

Kathy Oliver, Board Member

Kathy Earle, Board Member

Partners

Donations

HOW TO DONATE

Local Links

Contact Us

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