ASAR Legacy Fund.
Securing Decades of Emergency Service
Arrowsmith Search and Rescue Launches Legacy Fund as First Step Toward Long Term Sustainability
When Jack McLean of Coombs, BC passed away, he left behind more than a memory. Through a generous gift from his estate, Jack made a lasting investment in the safety of the Parksville-Qualicum community he called home. His gift has made possible the creation of the Arrowsmith Search and Rescue Legacy Fund, an endowment fund administered by the Parksville Qualicum Community Foundation (PQCF), established to ensure that Arrowsmith Search and Rescue can continue serving this region for generations to come.
His gift reflects a sincere belief in ASAR’s future and in the community it protects. By donating a property from his estate, the proceeds of which have established the Arrowsmith Search and Rescue Legacy Fund Jack ensured his support will continue to grow – strengthening the organization not only today but decades to come.
ASAR is deeply grateful to Jack and is committed to honouring his legacy by building this endowment into a lasting foundation for search and rescue services in the region.
A Fund built for the long term
The creation of the ASAR Legacy Fund represents an important milestone, and a meaningful step forward, but it is only the beginning. While the fund will grow in importance over time, it is not intended to replace annual donations or community fundraising efforts. Rather, it serves as a long-term investment that strengthens ASAR’s ability to plan ahead and remain resilient in the face of future challenges.
Held and managed by the Parksville Qualicum Community Foundation, the ASAR Legacy Fund is designed to grow steadily over the coming decades. The long-term vision is for the fund to provide a reliable baseline of financial support, helping to sustain operations and provide stability regardless of the funding pressures of any given year.
Importantly, the establishment of the Legacy Fund is not an indication that ASAR’s funding needs have been met. In fact, it reflects a commitment to responsible, forward-looking planning while recognizing that ongoing community support remains essential. The generosity of individuals, businesses, and partners will continue to play a critical role in ensuring ASAR can operate at a high level and respond when it matters most.
Why This Matters Now
ASAR has grown strategically in recent years to meet increasing demand for emergency services across the region and in mutual aid responses. The organization is operationally strong and Rescue Ready, but the costs of maintaining that standard of preparedness continue to rise.
ASAR’s core funding needs include:
- Ongoing operational costs to keep the organization running year-round
- Equipment, training, and maintenance required to maintain Rescue Ready status
- Building costs, including the remaining debt on ASAR’s facility
How you can help
Arrowsmith Search and Rescue is grateful for the ongoing support of the community it serves. That support plays a vital role in ensuring the team remains ready to respond when it matters most.
If you would specifically like to find out more about the Arrowsmith Search and Rescue Legacy Fund and how you can make a difference, we would be pleased to have a private personal discussion.
In addition, there are many ways to contribute, from annual donations that support day to day operations, to legacy giving through estate planning. Individuals working with lawyers, notaries, financial planners, or insurance advisors are encouraged to consider including ASAR in their estate plans. Legacy gifts are a powerful way to support the long-term sustainability of local emergency services and create a lasting impact within the community.
ASAR extends its sincere thanks to the individuals, businesses, and partners whose generosity continues to make this work possible.
For more information on how to support Arrowsmith Search and Rescue, whether as a donor, or through estate planning, please visit our “Donate” or “Ways to Donate” pages.
