|
De Anza Rescue Unit (DARU) is a organization established in 1969 and is a 501 ( C ) (3) non-profit organization that relies entirely on generous donations and monetary contributions.
DARU is coordinated through Imperial County Sheriff Department, with each member being required to submit to background checks, stringent monthly trainings and follow attendance rules for trainings, general meetings and maintenance work parties. DARU is on call 24/7, all throughout the year.
Their specific purpose is search and rescue, including medical assistance of injured, trapped, lost, or stranded persons in the mountains and deserts of Imperial County and other areas of California, when requested by "competent authority".
They are desperately in need of a trailer to use as their new Command Post. DARU's current Command Post is an old 70's converted school bus. The Command Post is their office on wheels. It contains computers, maps, various radios for communications and a wide variety of rescue gear. Although the Command Post seems to have everything, it does lack heating, air-conditioning and a restroom. Because the Command Post is so dated, this means that there is no place for DARU members, Sheriff's Department staff or family members of victims to get relief from either heat or cold. Imperial Valley summers average 110 degrees. Sometimes these searches mean the members will be away from home for 24+ hours.
De Anza Rescue Unit Inc. strives to promote public education in survival and self-rescue techniques thru public speaking programs, school intervention and the publication of brochures. DARU also assists is various security details and community outreach.
In the past four years DARU members have donated their time to the Annual M.L.K. Sand Dunes Clean Up. This is a yearly effort to collect trash that has accumulated in recreational areas.
From January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2009 DARU members have logged over 10,975 of volunteer hours and 19,720 miles at their own cost.
DARU members provide and pay for all of their own rescue equipment such as ATV's, 4x4 vehicles, helmets, uniforms, ropes, personal supplies and fuel.
DARU is only provided an average of $2,600.00 per year for expenses from Imperial County Sheriff's Department Volunteer Services BBQ. These proceeds help DARU with the utilities on the "Hut" (their headquarters), insurance, fuel and maintenance on the Command Post. Four years ago Brawley Rotary Club hosted a golf tournament to raise funds for DARU. Because of the DARU member's hard work and assistance before and during the golf tournament, over $2,400.00 was earned. With these funds, DARU was able to purchase 12 GPS units. These units are used during each training and rescues. By the members using matching GPS units DARU is able to maintain a review of searched areas on their computer.
This project is a joint effort with Holtville Rotary Club. With these two clubs working together on this project, DARU will be able to fund the difference and purchase the Command Post they need and install the radios, emergency lights and antenna needed.
| 
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)
;)