“Working with CGR gave our organization exactly what it needed to begin evaluating our programs. Dr. Donna Harris is a trusted professional who made this an enjoyable and beneficial process.”
Dr. Ashley CrossExecutive Director
Generation Two
High-performing local governments strive to engage all residents to ensure policies, services and decisions reflect their needs, perspectives, and values. This can become more challenging as diversity grows and existing mechanisms might not be effective. CGR has been engaged to help a fast-growing town in Massachusetts evaluate and improve its community engagement practices.
In the heart of the Hudson Valley, the Town of Rosendale, NY, relies on five independent fire districts. These all-volunteer departments answer the call to action an average of 20 times each month. However, these departments face a gauntlet of challenges: escalating call volumes, soaring costs, a decline in volunteer numbers, and the ever-increasing demands of modern firefighting training.
Seven years ago, CGR helped Essex County develop a strategic plan for their EMS system. Since then, Essex County EMS has made significant strides, including creating a fly-car and staff leasing model, a new dispatch program, paramedic and EMT education programs, a county-wide ambulance authority, and increased funding. Most ambulance services in the county now have paid staff, addressing prompt response concerns. EMS funding totals $6.8 million annually, drawn from towns, villages, fire districts, and the county.
How can we help your government, organization or foundation?