With donor support, the DeKalb County Community Foundation invests in projects and programs that enhance quality of life throughout DeKalb County. Our grants come from a variety of programs, each with unique goals, applicants, and impact. Thank you to our generous donors. Community Needs Grants are made possible through gifts to Community Impact Funds.

How does this generosity make a difference where we live? Explore the story below.

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Connecting People to the Right Support

Not every 911 call is an emergency. Many reflect ongoing health or social needs that require a different response. In 2025, the Community Paramedicine Program launched through a partnership between Elder Care Services and the City of DeKalb Fire Department to help connect residents with care before situations escalate into emergencies.

Supported by a $135,000 grant from the Howard and Mildred Eychaner Fund at the DeKalb County Community Foundation, the program provides proactive support for individuals facing ongoing health, behavioral, or social challenges. The funding included $90,000 to the DeKalb Fire Department for a dedicated paramedicine squad focused on follow-up visits and resource connection, and $45,000 to Elder Care Services for case management and direct support.

Instead of relying on repeated emergency responses, trained professionals assess needs, provide follow-up care, and connect residents to services that support long-term well-being. One resident who called 911 a total of 73 times in a single year is now connected to the right support and no longer relies on emergency response.

This approach improves quality of life for residents while helping ensure emergency services remain available when truly needed. Through the Howard and Mildred Eychaner Fund, donor generosity is helping bring care, connection, and support directly to those who need it most.

“Connected to support, no longer relying on 911.”