Volunteers Santos and Schumacher Reflect on 100 Years of Service

In December 2025, volunteers Jim Santos and Ken Schumacher celebrated a remarkable milestone of 100 years of combined service with the Southern Berkshire Ambulance (SBA). Both men have dedicated a significant portion of their lives to providing emergency medical services in South County, Massachusetts, highlighting the essential role they play in their community.

Longstanding Commitment to Community Care

Santos, who marks his 50th year as a volunteer, reflected on the changes he has witnessed over the decades. Schumacher, nearing his 49th year, echoed similar sentiments. “We are there when you need us—24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” Santos stated. This commitment is crucial for the residents of the largest rural area in the state, where access to timely medical care can be a challenge.

One notable recent incident illustrated the value of their service. A local man who suffered a major stroke was treated promptly by the SBA paramedic crew, allowing him to leave the hospital just three days later without lasting impairment. Santos emphasized that without their immediate care, the outcome could have been drastically different.

In their annual appeal letter, Santos and Schumacher highlighted the increasing challenges facing the ambulance service. They pointed to anticipated cuts in federal Medicaid and Medicare funding, rising insurance premiums, and the urgent need to offer competitive wages to retain skilled paramedics and EMTs in their community.

Financial Challenges and Community Support

The financial landscape for emergency medical services is demanding. The SBA has recently ordered two new ambulances, but the wait time for delivery has stretched to two years. Their oldest vehicle is now 12 years old and has exceeded its expected lifespan. Each replacement ambulance costs close to $500,000, and the funding for such vital resources relies heavily on community support.

“We need your help,” Santos urged in the letter. “The best gift is the one that saves lives.” He stressed the importance of community generosity, especially as the SBA faces increasing operational costs. Donations can be made online or via checks sent to their headquarters at 31 Lewis Ave, Great Barrington, MA 01230.

As they continue to adapt to new challenges, the SBA has also introduced a new intercept vehicle—commonly referred to as a fly car. This vehicle allows advanced paramedics to provide care en route, enhancing their ability to save lives before reaching the hospital.

In closing, Santos and Schumacher expressed their gratitude to the community that has consistently supported them. “The life you save could be your own,” they reminded readers as they encouraged donations during this critical time.

The Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad provides primary 911 coverage for several towns, including Alford, Great Barrington, and Sheffield. It also offers advanced lifesaving services to neighboring towns when available. As a nonprofit organization, the SBA relies on donations to sustain its operations and continue delivering essential medical services to the community.

For more information on how to support the Southern Berkshire Ambulance, visit their website or scan the provided QR code to make a donation. The team remains committed to serving the community every day of the year, ensuring that help is always close at hand.