OrganizationThe Huron and Area Search & Rescue was founded in 2018. Noticing a gap in volunteer long term search and rescue, Adam Seltzer began to research the idea of a professionally trained civilian search and rescue organization that could fill this niche. With the assistance of Patrick Armstrong and Jamie Mitchell, HASAR was formed and began to recruit motivated people for its 'officer' ranks. These leaders would help to form the core of the organization. By November 2018, HASAR had taken over 50 volunteers who began their basic SAR training.
In 2019, HASAR received its AdventureSmart accreditation and has deployed a team of 10 members to the Ottawa flooding. Members continue to train and prepare for the ground and marine component of HASAR. HASAR is a member of the Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association (OSARVA). 2020 saw COVID, where HASAR was able to assist One Care in Huron-Perth with Meals on Wheels; delivering over 1900 meals throughout three counties. HASAR again assisted One Care in 2020-2021 with Huron Meals on Wheels and is working with the Kincardine Rotary Club at the Vaccination Clinic in Grey-Bruce. In 2021, HASAR was admitted into the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary as Unit 556. 2022 saw HASAR deploy two members with the first ever SARVAC Humanitarian Work Team to Deer Lake. HASAR is made up of the following Branches: |
Mission StatementThe establishment and operation of a volunteer search and rescue organization for the purpose of:
EXCELLENCE - ENGAGEMENT - EDUCATION - Providing training to volunteer community members to teach the skills required to work together to execute successful search and rescue operations in extraordinary circumstances. - Engagement of our people and resources, assisting authorities when requested. - Community Education within our area and beyond for prevention and survival for those who become lost or missing. 2021-2023 Board President: Wayne McConnell, C.D.
Vice-President: Jodie Grainger Secretary: Kathie Ingham Treasurer: Deb Finch Director: Deb Logue Director: Bob Payne (2021-2022) Director: Jeff Thomson Director: Robin Lobb (2023) HASAR Commander: Adam Seltzer (2021-2022) HASAR Commander: Patrick Armstrong, O.M.C. (2022-2023) 2019-2021 Past BoardPresident: Wayne McConnell, C.D.
Vice-President: Jodie Grainger Secretary: Emma Bartz Treasurer: Kathie Ingham/Deb Finch Director: Deb Logue Director: Anne-Marie Thomson Director: Crystal Taylor HASAR Commander: Adam Seltzer |