The tragic death of Merion Fire Company volunteer Tom Hays ten years ago prompted the Main Line Chamber of Commerce to start the Main Line Chamber Foundation, to provide scholarships for emergency services volunteers, writes Tara Behan for Main Line Today.

Started in 2006 with $6,000, the program reached a record $45,000 last year with scholarships for 24 firefighters, EMTs and ambulance workers. The majority of the funding comes from the annual Main Line Run/Walk in September

“In many cases, the recipients are fresh out of high school and looking to gain some professional experience and get a job so they can continue to volunteer,” said Bernie Dagenais, Main Line Chamber president and CEO.

Read more about Tom Hayes’ life at Main Line Today by clicking here.