This past year has been a transformative journey for Pecos Valley Public Services. We began 2024 as a recognized Search & Rescue (SAR) organization in the State of New Mexico. However, after facing challenges with community services and the inability to self-activate for local emergencies, we made the difficult decision to voluntarily withdraw from our role as a state-recognized SAR team. New Mexico’s SAR efforts are state-supervised, and without the ability to respond directly to community needs, we realized there was a significant gap in local support—one that we felt we could fill.

Our pivot began in the winter, as we shifted focus toward becoming an EMS agency to better serve our immediate community. As a former SAR team, we had extensive expertise in wilderness aid and rural rescue, but we faced some resistance in transitioning to a new role. Understandably, there were initial doubts. However, our resolve and mission were soon tested when the Ruidoso fire disaster struck. Our organization quickly became a key player in the relief efforts, dedicating hundreds of volunteer hours to support those displaced by the fire.

During the height of the crisis, our team operated tirelessly in shelters and on the streets, assisting fire refugees and providing essential services. Supplies like food, medical items, blankets, and hygiene products dwindled, yet we persevered, ensuring the community had the care it needed. Once the fire crisis subsided, we returned to our ongoing efforts of supporting vulnerable populations. We continued working toward our EMS certification while also expanding our community outreach.

In 2024, we made significant strides in public safety training, certifying numerous individuals in CPR/AED and “Stop the Bleed” techniques. Beyond training, we provided medical aid and support at major local events, including the Chaves County 4-H FFA Fair, the Eastern New Mexico State Fair, the Walk of Hope, the Boys & Girls Club “Bubble Run,” and the Sertoma Colt Classic baseball tournament. Our presence was felt across the county, making an impact wherever help was needed.

By the time October arrived, it was clear we had been busier than ever. We had tripled our volunteer hours compared to the previous year, and then the unexpected struck again—a flood. That Saturday night, we conducted water rescues and provided medical standby at the ENMSF shelter for six days at the request of the American Red Cross. Once again, our supplies were stretched thin, but our volunteers pushed forward.

In total, Pecos Valley Public Services contributed more than 800 hours of volunteer service in 2024. That’s over 100 full workdays—completely free to the community. For a volunteer-based organization, this was no small feat. Beyond just providing trained, certified, and insured volunteers, we supplied the necessary tools, vehicles, and equipment to respond to crises.

Our efforts made a tangible difference. From responding to two major disasters, to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community at local fairs, celebrations, and weekly street outreach, we have been there every step of the way. Whether it was aiding fire refugees, providing care to those without homes at the warming center, or supporting cancer survivors at the Walk of Hope, our mission has remained the same: to serve our community without expecting anything in return.

As we reflect on the year, we are immensely proud of the work we’ve done and the impact we’ve had. Pecos Valley Public Services has proven that when the community needs help, we will always be there. And as we look to the future, we remain committed to growing our services and continuing to support those who need it most. It will not be easy. Because emergency medical services are highly regulated and require a lot of money to get those required licenses and certifications. But as always – we will manage it.

A big thanks foes out to our wonderful volunteers. We also send a heartfelt “Thank You” to all of you who have supported us with donations, supplies or just a friendly word here or there. We very much appreciate everything you have done for us.

Please continue to help us. We always need more supplies and of course financial support. Every cent allows us to provide more and better help. Not one cent has ever been paid to directors or volunteers of our agency. We serve the community – and that includes you. Thank you for your support.

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Merry Christmas and happy holidays.

The directors and volunteers of Pecos Valley Public Services.