Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Corps

The Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc. (COCVAC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Clinton, New York. Since its inception in 1970, COCVAC has been providing emergency medical services (EMS) to the communities within Central Oneida County.

Mission

The organization's mission is to deliver immediate, quality, and professional emergency medical services and patient transportation to those residing in, visiting, or traveling through its service area. COCVAC's commitment includes serving with professionalism, compassion, and readiness, overcoming evolving challenges in EMS.

Services

COCVAC offers a wide range of services, including emergency responses, safe patient transfers, and equipping the community with lifesaving skills. Additionally, they ensure safety at special events. The organization operates with a fleet of ambulances, providing 24-hour coverage from three stations.

Operations

COCVAC serves more than 10 towns and villages in Oneida County, including Augusta, Kirkland, Marshal, Sangerfield, Vernon, Westmoreland, and Whitestown. As of 2020, it maintains a main station in Clark Mills (Clinton), along with satellite stations in Whitesboro and Oriskany Falls.

Training and Education

The organization is also engaged as a training center, offering comprehensive education for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Paramedics, and Critical Care Technicians. COCVAC provides CPR and First Aid classes to the general public, fostering a culture of community-wide safety and preparedness.

Volunteer Engagement

COCVAC is supported by over 100 dedicated volunteers, many of whom live and work in the communities they serve. The organization welcomes volunteers of all experience levels—drivers, EMTs, Critical Care Technicians, and Paramedics. No prior medical experience is required, as COCVAC offers comprehensive training to new volunteers.

Governance and Reviews

COCVAC has received a moderate charity rating, reflecting both strengths in volunteer culture and financial management, as well as areas for improvement in governance policies. Despite these challenges, the organization is recognized for its supportive environment and commitment to continuous improvement.