By Sean Caffrey

FoCEMS is a registered Small Donor Committee (SDC) that allows for funds to be collected from individuals and distributed to state-level candidates for office. The maximum individual contribution is $50 per year, however there is no maximum donation amount to candidates, making SDCs a powerful tool to support our friends in elected office across the state. 

Who is running FoCEMS?

EMSAC supported the formation of FOCEMS, however, as a tax-exempt 501(c)3 non-profit association EMSAC cannot support or oppose candidates for elected office. FOCEMS was therefore created as an independent committee and is managed by three trustees: Tim Dienst, Sean Caffrey and John Seward with support from Civica, EMSAC’s management firm.  

What are the current FoCEMS Priorities?

The FOCEMS SDC's current focus is soliciting contributions to build up the fund. We were excited to receive just under $500 in contributions at February’s EMS Day at the Capitol. Since the fund's value lies in making meaningful contributions to legislative candidates who support EMS above individual contribution limits, we will likely continue to focus on donations until the fund reaches a few thousand dollars in size. 

How will FoCEMS Political Donations be determined?

While we don’t expect to make any contributions until the 2026 elections, we do expect that we will be working with the EMSAC Advocacy Committee, the EMSAC Board of Directors and EMSAC's contract lobbyist, Chris Howes, to help us determine how to distribute funds in the future. 

What Can I do to Help?

Please consider making an individual donation to FoCEMS of up to $50 (per year). Colleagues, family and friends can also make individual donations. Also get to know your state representative and senator and ask them to support EMS related causes. As 2026 comes around, be prepared to weigh in on who FoCEMS should support. Donations can be made here. Or text “focems” to (888) 444-8774.