The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms proudly recognizes a host of local individuals, couples, and businesses whose generous contributions have launched the Firefighter Founders program. This new initiative is tailored to meet the Isle of Palms Fire Department's specific needs, directly supporting the priorities outlined by the Fire Chief.
Chief Oliverius is a steadfast advocate for his team, emphasizing the importance of not just managing salaries, benefits, and training, but also enhancing recruitment and retention efforts. He recently highlighted the significant role of the Firefighter Founders program:
"The Isle of Palms Fire & Rescue is privileged to serve a community that's both vibrant and supportive. The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms, through the Firefighter Founders program, has become a pivotal element in enhancing the lives of our firefighters. This program is proactive, adaptable, and effective, not only in supporting our safety personnel but also in advancing our community outreach initiatives. It addresses crucial needs, providing essential support where it's most needed—ranging from mental health initiatives through MUSC to scholarship opportunities and hardship support. The collaboration between our department and the LENS Foundation has been incredibly beneficial, profoundly impacting our firefighters and their families."
The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms and the Fire Department extend a heartfelt thank you to the inaugural Firefighter Founders:
- Jim and Linda Thompson
- Jean Blackwell and Kim Williams
- Ted and Anne Kinghorn
- Joanna and Stewart Brown
- Stuart Bascomb
- Mike and Clair Powers
- Dudley and Glenda Spangler
- Brooke and Dimi Matouchev
- Gary and Kim Chesson
- Paige and Rob Hauff
- Dave and Trudi Rohr
- Kathryn Magruder
- Karen and Charles McCoy
- Beth and Murray Small
- Sandy and Peggy Stone
- Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce
- SkyRun Charleston Property Management
- Jenn Grabenstetter
- Pete and Michele Page
- Phillip and Laurie Pounds
- Jarrett and Brett Kraeling
- Patricia Buddemeyer
- Maryanne and Alec Chalmers
- Ginn and Brad Maiers
- Diane Tausig
- Kathy Shook
- Myron and Melly Tucker
- Stems and Skins
- Bernie and Shawn Drackwicz
- MacIntyre Brothers
- Tony and Whitney Jones
- Betsy Reidenbach
- Carolina One Real Estate IOP
- Dave and Barb Janssen
For additional information on how you can join the Firefighter Founders or participate in upcoming public safety programs like National Night Out and the Public Safety Open House, please visit https://www.lensiop.org/firefighter-founders. We welcome your involvement in our efforts to support our first responders and enhance community safety.
Fire Marshal Sean Harshaw also expressed profound gratitude for this support, noting the emotional and practical benefits it brings to the department and inviting all community members to engage with the LENS-sponsored Autumn safety programs.
