LENS Foundation Extends Support to IOP Fire & Rescue

Isle of Palms, SC – The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms proudly recognizes a
host of local individuals, couples, and businesses whose generous contributions have
launched the Firefighter Founders program. This new initiative is tailored to meet the Isle
of Palms Fire Department's specific needs, directly supporting the priorities outlined by
the Fire Chief.

Chief Oliverius is a steadfast advocate for his team, emphasizing the importance of not
just managing salaries, benefits, and training, but also enhancing recruitment and
retention efforts. He recently highlighted the significant role of the Firefighter Founders
program:

"The Isle of Palms Fire & Rescue is privileged to serve a community that's both vibrant
and supportive. The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms, through the Firefighter Founders
program, has become a pivotal element in enhancing the lives of our firefighters. This
program is proactive, adaptable, and effective, not only in supporting our safety personnel
but also in advancing our community outreach initiatives. It addresses crucial needs,
providing essential support where it's most needed—ranging from mental health
initiatives through MUSC to scholarship opportunities and hardship support. The
collaboration between our department and the LENS Foundation has been incredibly
beneficial, profoundly impacting our firefighters and their families."

The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms and the Fire Department extend a heartfelt thank you
to the inaugural Firefighter Founders:

● Jim and Linda Thompson
● Jean Blackwell and Kim Williams
● Ted and Anne Kinghorn
● Joanna and Stewart Brown
● Stuart Bascomb
● Mike and Clair Powers
● Dudley and Glenda Spangler
● Brooke and Dimi Matouchev
● Gary and Kim Chesson
● Paige and Rob Hauff
● Dave and Trudi Rohr
● Kathryn Magruder
● Karen and Charles McCoy
● Beth and Murray Small
● Sandy and Peggy Stone
● Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce
● SkyRun Charleston Property Management
● Jenn Grabenstetter
● Pete and Michele Page
● Phillip and Laurie Pounds
● Jarrett and Brett Kraeling
● Patricia Buddemeyer
● Maryanne and Alec Chalmers
● Ginn and Brad Maiers
● Diane Tausig
● Kathy Shook
● Myron and Melly Tucker
● Stems and Skins
● Bernie and Shawn Drackwicz
● MacIntyre Brothers
● Tony and Whitney Jones
● Betsy Reidenbach
● Dave and Barb Janssen

For additional information on how you can join the Firefighter Founders or participate in
upcoming public safety programs like National Night Out and the Public Safety Open
House, please visit https://www.lensiop.org/firefighter-founders. 

Fire Marshal Sean Harshaw also expressed profound gratitude for this support, noting the
emotional and practical benefits it brings to the department and inviting all community
members to engage with the LENS-sponsored Autumn safety programs.

- Submitted by  Ted Kinghorn, IOP LENS Foundation