Homes for Heroes is an amazing program that focuses on helping heroes, such as firefighters, EMTs, police officers, military, active and inactive, medical professionals, and teachers.
This month’s feature focus is on EMTs, emergency medical technicians. These hero professionals are there for us at some of the worst moments of our lives. Giving of themselves in ways that we are all appreciative of and they share a common mindset of helping others. We are proud to present our first hero community highlight, Philip King, EMT, assistant fire chief of Bardwell, volunteer firefighter for Arlington and mayor of Bardwell. Philip King has the heart and soul of an EMT and fire fighter who exuberates the volunteer spirit that serves our community of Bardwell, ready and willing to take action when he is called upon. When he spoke to us about his volunteering, it was clear to see that helping his community and the people within it was a big part of the fire that keeps him going.
Philip started volunteering at a noticeably young age, he “had no other choice”. His family has always been incredibly involved in the community. When he was 14 years old there was a gap left in Carlisle County – they did not have enough EMTs. His family responded to the need and volunteered to fill the gap. His father, uncle, cousin, and sister all took their training and began working as EMTs. When they were called to service, he went with them. He couldn’t participate the way he wanted to, of course, but when his dad went to classes, he tagged along. At 17, a junior in high school, Mr. King was taking the same classes. As soon as he was able, which was his 18th birthday, he tested and became an EMT and fire fighter. He continued working as both until 1992 when he moved to Bardwell and was appointed fire chief for the next 16 ½ years, when he then became mayor, August 2008.
Philip’s effervescent personality and love for people, volunteering, and helping meet the needs in his community radiates from him. He shared the needs he sees and some of the flaws within everyday systems. “Our children are not being taught to volunteer anymore. We need to seek out the opportunities to show our children how to find the needs all around them and fill those needs.” Philip shared many stories with us of his childhood, family influences, and passions. It was obvious that Philip was raised with an expectation to help from the influences of his family. There was a fostering of giving that grew innately and naturally within him to step up and help anytime needed. Philip expressed it was ingrained into him from such an early age, it simply became something he does without a second thought. “Encouraging others to always be examples so it spreads. This is something everyone can learn; ‘monkey see, monkey do’ after all,” he says. “Encouraging others to always be examples so it spreads.” Some examples he gave for parents to use to create and foster that community hero spirit heart within their little heroes are: picking up trash around your local community where needed, volunteering to read, play games or just sit and talk with a senior citizen, volunteer at a local soup kitchen, or sign up for a charity run together.
Philip exemplifies the mindset and heart that is within our EMT professionals. Philip also serves as the current mayor for Bardwell, providing many resources to his community. He was raised being involved in 4H and is now a leader and grant writer that helps to bring programs for youth to the community. His efforts have helped raise over $100,000, which was provided to 4H and Future Farmers of America and used for youth programs in Carlisle County. Philip remains active in WhiteTail Unlimited that remains a huge contributor to these programs. He’s always looking to discover opportunities and ways that he can bring change and help to his community.
This is the message we want to express; there are opportunities everywhere you can make a difference. Philip is one of so many examples of a community hero heart and we look forward to sharing more. There’s a little hero in all of us humans we just need to tap into. Philip encourages you to, “Just look around. There are needs that can be filled everywhere.”
EMTs ARE NEEDED! Are you interested in helping people through the hardships of life and being the first person to help when all goes wrong? As long as you’re 18, high school graduate or equivalent diploma, can pass a TB skin test, and hold a valid driver’s license, you can apply and attend in-person or online classes. For more information, please visit https://emtpky.com/emergency-medical-education/emt/
