Tim Harvie wants to be rescued by STARS air ambulance, something most people hope to avoid. The unusual request is part of Rescue in the Rockies, a unique fundraising campaign that raises money for the specialized emergency service.
Tim Harvie wants to be rescued by STARS air ambulance, something most people hope to avoid.
The unusual request is part of Rescue in the Rockies, a unique fundraising campaign that raises money for the specialized emergency service.
“You'd be hard pressed to find anyone who hasn't been touched by STARS. It is a service no one is immune from, ” Harvie explained over coffee.
He launched his campaign over the weekend and intends to match every dollar to reach a goal of $50,000. He kicked it off himself with a $25,000 donation and says he will continue to match the funds exceeding his goals. Every dollar will be donated to the not-for-profit air ambulance.
The Cochranite said he was approached earlier this year by the STARS team to be one of the four CEOs to be rescued in the fifth annual campaign.
“They provide a vital service that we all hope we never need but that everyone realizes could be a lifesaver for any of us, ” Harvie said.
The Southbow Farming Ltd. president was motivated to join the campaign because he had two close friends who required the service - fortunately with “good outcomes. ”
As part of the fundraiser, Harvie and the other participating CEOs will be flown from Calgary to a mountain location where they will face a series of medical and survival challenges, which could include making a fire, building a shelter or performing CPR.
Harvie will only be allowed to bring his Leatherman pocket tool and his cellphone.
“It is a unique event concept, ” said Vanessa Marmelic, development officer with STARS.
“It is a great way to raise awareness and get community leaders involved. ”
Since beginning in 2012, the campaign has raised more than $4.4 million.
On average STARS is called out four times each day at an approximate cost of $5,400 per flight. The organization relies on funding through donations from individuals, service groups, business and corporations, municipalities and through collaborative agreements with provincial governments.
While he was invited as a ‘CEO,' Harvie laughs as he explains he is not a CEO but just a president who also sits on three different foundation boards including the Cochrane Foundation board and the Glenbow Park Ranch Foundation board - both started by his family.
“If you believe and you can then you should help out, ” Harvie said.
Harvie's fundraising efforts will go until Sept. 29.
For more information or to donate funds to ‘rescue' Harvie, go to www.ceorescueintherockies.com.
