Stamford Paramedic Association (SPA) has an active fundraising campaign that is administerd by Funding & Development, Inc. They may attempt to reach the citizens of Stamford as well as other benefactors of our organization by telephone or mail. Funding & Development is the only authorized agent acting on the behalf of the SPA for fundraising. Following are a few common questions and answers.

Q: Is this money going to help buy ambulances or pay staff?

A: No, the Stamford Paramedic Association is a different entity than Stamford EMS, Inc., which is the contracted 911 Paramedic ambulance provider for the City of Stamford. We are the labor union that represents the full-time EMT's, EMT-Intermediates, and Paramedics of Stamford EMS. While we are all employees of Stamford EMS, Inc., we are not raising money for Stamford EMS, Inc. proper. Our fundraising goes to promote our charitable works, which in the past has gone to sponsor youth athletic leagues, community improvent projects (such as the Mill River Playground), to name a few of many. This year we are looking to expand into scholarships to local high schools. We also work to advance the level of emergency services offered to the community.

Q: I want to make a donation but don't want to deal with a fundraising company. Why don't you raise the money yourself?

A: Quite simply, time and a small labor force. We have a good number of our employees working at all times to provide the highest and most professional level of care to our community. Logistically, it is impossible to reach as many citizens and benefactors with the available members as well as administrate the program in a reasonable amount of time. Funding and Development has worked out a fair contract, and we look forward to working with them in the future.

Q: I made a donation, and they want me to leave a check by the mailbox to be picked up? That doesn't sound too safe.

A: You do have a choice to mail in any donation if you wish; please emphasize this with the solicitor. However, Funding and Development, on behalf of the SPA, uses couriers to pick up checks which allows for a more efficient processing.

Q: What events does the SPA run for the public?

A: We run an annual event, held in the end of summer/early fall of each year. The past few years we have been fortunate enough to present, with the help of Funding and Development, the Harlem Rockets Basketball team. Their comedy basketball game pits them against members and friends of the SPA and has been met with rave reviews by all who attend. Next year's event has not been announced yet; check back for more information.

Q: What if I have more questions?

A: Don't hesitate to contact us - our numbers are available under the "Contact Us" Menu link. Call, mail, or email us and we will get back to you as soon as we can.