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Mail Call: Minnesotans want a state memorial for EMS personnel

By Adam S. Harvey

Minnesotans want a state memorial for EMS personnel

To our Friends, Supporters, Sponsors, and Donors,

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on an extraordinary first year for the MN State EMS LoDD Memorial Foundation. Thanks to your support, our vision of honoring EMS personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice is one step closer to becoming a reality.

 

A Year of Milestones

  1. 501(c)(3) Status: We officially filed for our own 501(c)(3) designation and are eagerly awaiting the IRS’s decision. We anticipate finalizing this process by winter 2025, solidifying our foundation as a recognized nonprofit.
  2. Legislative Engagement: Over the course of the year, we met with several Minnesota state senators and representatives. Their positive feedback and support reaffirm our mission and its importance to the EMS and broader community.
  3. Letters of Support: We received many incredible letters of support from both individuals and organizations. The State of Minnesota expressed their pleasure in seeing such widespread backing for our initiative. However, we recognize that every additional letter strengthens our case and moves us closer to realizing our dream.
  4. Financial Growth: Despite the costs of startup expenses and legal fees, we successfully raised funds to deposit approximately $8,655 into the bank. This strong start gives us momentum as we move forward. We are anticipating to have around $10,000 by the end of 2024 due to a last minute donor promise.
  5. Collaboration with CAAPB: We maintained ongoing communication with the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board (CAAPB), the body overseeing memorial and artwork projects at the Minnesota State Capitol. These meetings have been crucial to advancing our plans for a physical memorial.

 

Looking Ahead to 2025

We are excited to build on our success with ambitious plans for the new year:

  • Representing the Foundation at the MN Arrowhead EMS Conference in Duluth this January.
  • Generating additional letters of support and expanding outreach and marketing efforts.
  • Exploring opportunities for a fundraiser to further strengthen our financial foundation.
  • Continuing the application process with the CAAPB.
  • Driving forward the vision of the memorial through advocacy, collaboration, and unwavering dedication.

This mission, this dream  —bringing a lasting tribute to Minnesota’s EMS heroes — would not be possible without your incredible support. Your belief in our purpose fuels our progress and keeps us motivated to achieve even greater milestones.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. Together, we will make 2025 a transformative year for our foundation and the EMS community.

With gratitude,

Adam S. Harvey

EMT, Paramedic

President & Founder

MN State EMS LODD