Support Local Heroes: Join Us for the 5th Annual New Hanover County First Responders Kickball Tournament

Every year, the community comes together to celebrate and support the brave men and women who serve as first responders. This year, the 5th Annual New Hanover County First Responders Kickball Tournament promises to be an exciting event with a meaningful purpose. The Cape Fear EMS Foundation has been named the official beneficiary, and all funds raised will go directly to assisting local first responders facing financial challenges. Here’s everything you need to know about this foundation and how you can get involved.

About the Cape Fear EMS Foundation

The Cape Fear EMS Foundation was established in August 2024 as a nonprofit organization based in North Carolina. Its mission is clear: to support the EMS community by providing financial assistance to those in need. This foundation focuses on two main areas:

• Helping EMS students in the Cape Fear region with scholarships

• Offering grants to EMS professionals facing hardships

  
  

The foundation covers New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, and Columbus counties, ensuring that the support reaches those who serve these communities directly.

Supporting EMS Students Through Scholarships

Training to become a paramedic or EMS professional requires dedication and financial resources. Tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenses can create barriers for many students. The Cape Fear EMS Foundation addresses this by offering scholarships to students enrolled in pre-hospital education programs at North Carolina Community Colleges within the region.

These scholarships help cover:

• Tuition fees

• Educational materials like textbooks

• Other costs related to EMS training

  
  

By easing these financial burdens, the foundation ensures that more students can complete their training and enter the workforce prepared to serve their communities.

The Kevin Fuson Memorial Fund

In memory of Kevin Fuson, a respected EMS professional who passed away in 2022, the foundation created the Kevin Fuson Memorial Fund. This fund provides grants to EMS workers who encounter unexpected financial difficulties. Whether due to medical emergencies, family crises, or other hardships, this fund offers a safety net for those who dedicate their lives to helping others.

This fund reflects the spirit of generosity and community that Kevin embodied, making sure his legacy continues to support first responders in need.

How the Foundation Raises Funds

The Cape Fear EMS Foundation relies on grants and community fundraising efforts to sustain its programs. Events like the New Hanover County First Responders Kickball Tournament play a crucial role in generating the funds necessary to support scholarships and grants.

Community members, local businesses, and organizations come together to participate, sponsor, and cheer on the teams. This event not only raises money but also builds awareness about the challenges EMS professionals face and the importance of supporting them.

Why You Should attend the Kickball Tournament

The kickball tournament is more than just a fun day of sports. It’s an opportunity to:

• Show appreciation for first responders

• Help raise funds for scholarships and emergency grants

• Connect with community members who share a commitment to support local heroes

• Enjoy a family-friendly event with food, music, and activities

  
  

Whether you join as a player, volunteer, sponsor, or spectator, your involvement makes a difference.

The Impact of Your Support

Every dollar raised at the tournament goes directly to helping EMS students and professionals in the Cape Fear region. Your support helps:

• Reduce financial barriers for EMS students

• Provide emergency assistance to first responders facing hardships

• Strengthen the local EMS community by ensuring more trained professionals are available to serve

  
  

By participating, you contribute to a stronger, healthier community where first responders receive the support they deserve.