Volunteers Jim Santos and Ken Schumacher Mark 99 Years of Service

The Southern Berkshire Ambulance team celebrated a remarkable milestone with long-time volunteers Jim Santos and Ken Schumacher, who together represent nearly a century of dedicated service. In 2025, Santos reaches his 50th year as a volunteer, while Schumacher marks his 49th. Their commitment exemplifies the spirit of community service, as they ensure that emergency medical assistance is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In a recent interview, Santos and Schumacher reflected on their experiences, highlighting the critical role they play in the South County region of Massachusetts. As volunteers, they have witnessed significant changes in emergency medical services, yet their mission remains the same: to provide immediate care to those in need. “No one calls the ambulance because they are having a good day,” Santos noted. He emphasized the urgency and emotional weight of each call, stating, “Our team races to the scene knowing folks are scared.”

The Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad serves a vast area, providing essential support not only to their local communities but also through mutual aid agreements with neighboring services. They operate three teams that respond quickly to emergencies, a necessity in a region characterized by its rural landscape.

The challenges facing the ambulance service are increasingly daunting. Funding cuts from Federal Medicaid and Medicare programs are anticipated, and rising insurance premiums contribute to a growing number of uninsured patients. Santos expressed concern over these financial pressures, stating that competitive wages are essential to retain skilled paramedics and EMTs in the area.

The operational challenges extend beyond staffing. The squad has recently placed orders for two new ambulances, which are expected to arrive in late 2026 and early 2027, respectively. The oldest ambulance in their fleet is now 12 years old, well beyond its expected lifespan. Each new vehicle comes with a staggering price tag of approximately $500,000, highlighting the financial strain on the organization.

Santos remarked on the importance of community support: “This year, that generosity matters more than ever. The life you save could be your own.” To sustain their operations, the Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad relies heavily on donations from the community. They encourage local residents to contribute through their website or by mailing checks to their headquarters at 31 Lewis Ave., Great Barrington, MA 01230.

In addition to their fundraising efforts, the squad has introduced a new intercept vehicle, known as a fly car, which allows advanced paramedics to provide critical care en route to the hospital. This service improves response times and enhances patient outcomes by initiating treatment before arriving at Fairview Emergency.

Santos and Schumacher’s dedication to their roles as volunteers extends beyond their professional commitments. They are actively involved in promoting community education on health issues, such as hypothermia, through informative videos in collaboration with organizations like the Canadian Red Cross.

As the Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad prepares for another year of service, they remain focused on their mission to provide exceptional care to those in need. Their ongoing efforts reflect the profound impact of volunteerism in the community, and they invite everyone to join them in ensuring that life-saving services continue to be available for all.

The next chapter for the Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad promises both challenges and opportunities, as they navigate the evolving landscape of emergency medical services while remaining steadfast in their commitment to the community.