Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad Inc.

Overview

The Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad Inc. (EIN: 237415015) is a nonprofit organization based in North Charleston, South Carolina. Founded in 1962, it operates as a fully volunteer-driven entity dedicated to providing emergency rescue services to the residents and visitors of Charleston County. The organization plays a vital role in enhancing public safety through a variety of emergency response capabilities.

Mission and Services

The squad's primary mission is to assist the community during emergencies, ensuring rapid and effective rescue operations. It responds to approximately 1,000 calls each year, covering a geographical area of over 1,300 square miles, which includes more than 80 miles of coastline[1][2].

The services provided by the Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad include:

• Automobile extrication
• Urban and rural search and rescue
• Large animal rescue
• Swift water rescue
• Confined space operations
• Diving and drowning recovery
• First responder medical assistance

The squad is contracted by Charleston County to support other agencies during significant emergencies, such as disasters or multiple-alarm fires, where local resources may be overwhelmed[2][3].

Funding and Financials

The primary funding for the Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad comes from Charleston County, supplemented by community donations and fundraising efforts. The organization reported total gross receipts of approximately $955,514 and net assets of around $1,505,458 for the fiscal year ending in 2023[1][2]. The fiscal responsibility is highlighted by a program expense ratio of 94.56%, indicating that a substantial portion of its funds directly supports its emergency response mission.

Governance and Operations

As a 501(c)(3) entity, the organization emphasizes operational transparency and has submitted its financial records in compliance with regulatory standards. However, it faces challenges regarding governance, such as a lack of independent board members[1]. This has implications for accountability, although the organization maintains a low liabilities-to-assets ratio and has established audit oversight mechanisms.

Community Impact

The Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad significantly contributes to the safety and well-being of the community by ensuring that trained volunteers are available for emergency response situations 24/7, throughout the year[2][3]. By effectively serving the local population, the squad fosters a sense of security and preparedness within Charleston County.

Conclusion

The Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad Inc. exemplifies community service through its unwavering commitment to emergency response and public safety. As a volunteer organization, it relies heavily on the support of local citizens and community partners to fulfill its critical mission in times of crisis.