Cresson Area Ambulance Service Inc.

Cresson Area Ambulance Service Inc., now known as Cambria Alliance EMS, is a nonprofit organization providing emergency medical services in the Cresson area of Pennsylvania.

History

The organization's roots trace back to 1929 when Norman P. Casher established a funeral business in Cresson. Initially, Casher used hearses for both funeral services and transporting patients to nearby hospitals. Over time, the funeral home expanded into pre-hospital care, incorporating first-aid kits and training Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). The first class of EMTs included Francis P. Casher, Tim Pupo, Robert Sheehan Jr., and Tim Casher[1].

In November 1978, the Charles M. Kennedy Funeral Home announced plans to form a non-profit ambulance service called the Kennedy Ambulance Service, Inc. This service began with twelve charter members and was equipped with a 1976 Modular ambulance purchased for $16,000[1].

Throughout the 1980s, the service evolved significantly. In 1980, Advanced Life Support (ALS) was introduced, with four EMTs becoming paramedics. The service purchased vital medical equipment, including a heart monitor and defibrillator[1]. By 1988, the organization officially changed its name to the Cresson Area Ambulance Service, Inc.[1].

Services and Operations

Today, Cresson Area Ambulance Service Inc. operates under the name Cambria Alliance EMS, offering both Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) services. It is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and recognized for meeting or exceeding pediatric care accreditation standards[3].

In addition to emergency medical transport, the organization provides community services such as CPR training and emergency awareness programs at local high schools[5]. The organization is a member of the Southern Alleghenies EMS Council, which coordinates emergency services across several counties in Central Pennsylvania[3].

Organizational Structure

In 1991, Cresson Area Ambulance Service Inc. established a Board of Directors to manage its financial and legal affairs, reflecting its growth in both size and complexity[1]. This structural change allowed for more effective governance and response to the growing demands of the community.

Recognition and Legacy

The organization's founders, including Norman P. Casher and Charles M. Kennedy, are remembered for their contributions to establishing and developing pre-hospital care in the region[1]. Their efforts laid the groundwork for the modern EMS services provided by Cambria Alliance EMS today.