For Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD – Security Health Plan of Wisconsin, Inc., will invest $1,000 in Spencer Fire Department, as part of its Employee-Driven Corporate Giving grant program.

Each month, Security Health Plan awards a $1,000 grant to a different charity or organization that is nominated by a Marshfield Clinic Health System employee. Employees are encouraged to nominate organizations making a positive difference in the community.

“Spencer Fire Department offers a variety of life-saving services to the Spencer area,” Marshfield Clinic Health System physician assistant Mary Saeger said. “As an emergency response service in a smaller community, fundraising is always a concern and donations are important to sustaining this life-saving service. The equipment and supplies needed for firefighting and emergency medical services (EMS) are quite expensive and need to be updated regularly. Fundraising is a year-round effort.”

Saeger said her husband is currently starting a new career in emergency medical services and is a paramedic student. Last year, he obtained his emergency medical technician (EMT)-basic certification. With that, he joined Spencer EMS, which is a part of Spencer Fire Department.

Since he joined the department, Saeger said she has witnessed the dedication the team of EMTs and firefighters have in the Spencer community.

 “The group of individuals with whom he works have been very welcoming and work hard to provide a very important service to the community,” she said. “At a recent community event hosted by the department I saw firsthand how much the residents of Spencer and surrounding communities appreciate the hard work and dedication of the volunteers who work to make the community a safe place to live.”

 Saeger said the funds from the Health Plan will be used to purchase needed supplies to support the existing life-saving operations Spencer Fire Department provides. She said the department is funded by the municipalities it serves, as well as donations and grants, which isn’t always enough to fully support the department’s needs.

To get involved, make a donation, or learn more about the department visit their website at www.spencerwi.org/area-fire-department.