"A new year brings new faces to your local ambulance service," announced Ben Scheffel, new president of the Christiana Community Ambulance Association (CCAA). In addition to Scheffel, other officers elected during the January board meeting were George Stewart, vice president; Tim Zook, treasurer; and Brian Petersheim, recording secretary. John Beyer and Paul Zook were also named as board members. "Together, we are excited to hit the ground running," Scheffel said.

The new officers are part of CCAA's revitalization effort, which includes adding more volunteers, improving its website and expanding its fleet of emergency vehicles.

"(The board) makes decisions about finances and equipment, goes over the chief's report and (discusses) any issues coming up. Right now, it is the lack of volunteers," Scheffel stated.

CCAA, located at 55 Pine Creek Drive in Gap, is a nonprofit organization that serves a large portion of southeastern Lancaster County, as well as parts of western Chester County. The company responds to more than 1,000 calls per year.

Currently, WellSpan provides EMTs to CCAA to cover the daytime shift from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the evening shift from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. is covered by volunteers. "There are a few nights that are not covered, so that's why we are seeking volunteers," Scheffel noted. "Volunteers have to be EMT-certified. We can help people get their certification."

In addition to medical personnel, CCAA is in need of other volunteers who can donate their time during either shift. Volunteer opportunities include washing the rigs and helping with technology needs.

In a volunteer recruitment letter posted on the CCAA website and Facebook page, Scheffel refers to volunteers as hometown heroes. "The Christiana Community Ambulance is recruiting volunteers to join in our mission of serving and building a sustainable community ambulance organization," the statement reads. "With just a few hours a month, you can make a difference in the community and change lives forever."

Scheffel, who is also a member of the Christiana Lions Club, said that the benefits of volunteering include making a difference in the community, gaining professional skills with hands-on learning, forming new friendships and joining people from different backgrounds with a common goal of helping others.

"2022 was a tough year with many hurdles to clear," stated Scheffel. "(Board members) Michele Neckermann and Tim Manley weathered many storms that included volunteer shortages and board turnover but were able to hold CCAA together."

"In August of 2022, CCAA hired a new chief, Corey Gossert," Scheffel added. "Corey has over 30 years of experience in emergency services and has held multiple leadership roles over that time."

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Gossert at 610-593-8166 or chief46@christianaems.org. More information about the CCAA is available at http://www.christianaems.org and http://www.facebook.com/ChristianaAmbulance46.