WellSpan Emergency Services Fund

The WellSpan Emergency Services Fund, administered by the Adams County Community Foundation, offers grant funding aimed at fostering a more coordinated and collaborative Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system within Adams County, Pennsylvania. This initiative reflects the Community Foundation’s broader mission to promote local philanthropy and invest in the long-term well-being of the region. The foundation is recognized for its commitment to high standards, holding certifications from the Council on Foundations and the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations. The purpose of this fund is to support nonprofit, community-based EMS providers in transitioning toward a more integrated and regionally effective system. Grants may be used for professional services such as hiring a consultant to facilitate a merger, for start-up operational support during an organization's first year, or for the development of new joint projects that address community EMS needs. These funds aim to improve the financial sustainability and overall quality of EMS services in the area by encouraging collaboration among providers. To be eligible, both the lead applicant and any partner organizations must be nonprofit and tax-exempt under IRS guidelines, a government unit, or a public agency. The fund specifically seeks projects that are rooted in partnerships among organizations with a shared goal of regional EMS improvement. A critical component of eligibility is the presence of a cooperative spirit among applicants, as evidenced by a jointly signed letter of intent to pursue a merger or collaborative venture. Applicants must submit several key materials to be considered. These include the IRS determination letter for each participating organization, a signed letter of intent among the partnering boards, a completed WellSpan Emergency Services Fund Grant Proposal Summary form, and a project narrative of no more than three typed pages. The narrative must address specific questions including how the project will support EMS regionalization, identify partner organizations, justify the project’s necessity, outline expected outcomes, and describe plans for sustainability and partnership structure. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, with no specified deadline, allowing organizations to apply whenever they are ready. The completed applications and all required documents should be submitted electronically to info@adamscountycf.org. Questions about the fund or application process may be directed to the foundation via phone at 717-337-0060. By encouraging mergers and collaborations among EMS organizations, the WellSpan Emergency Services Fund plays a key role in shaping a more unified and financially sustainable EMS system for Adams County. The fund reflects the Community Foundation’s broader commitment to the enduring health and safety of the community it serves.