Learn more about the great things ProAction Emergency Services Institute is doing in your community.

Based in El Paso, Texas, ProAction EMS has dedicated itself to improving the lives of those in West Texas and Southern New Mexico. Through our CPR classes, first aid certification courses, stop the bleed training, EMS program, and event medical standby services, we have had a significant impact on those we serve every day.

30 Years of Lifesaving Service: A Legacy of Impact

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As we mark our 30th anniversary, ProAction Emergency Services Institute is proud to reflect on three decades of unwavering commitment to public safety, health equity, and lifesaving education in our community.

What began in 1995 as a vision to equip local residents with the tools to respond in emergencies has grown into one of the region’s most trusted providers of EMT certification, CPR/First Aid, vaccination outreach, and event medical services.

Thanks to the steadfast support of donors, partners, and grantors, ProAction has trained more than 51,000 individualsand facilitated over 1 million patient encounters through our immunization efforts with Immunize El Paso.

A Proven Track Record of Impact

📊 By the Numbers (1999–2024):

  • 💉 371,000+ children and 178,000+ adults immunized

  • 🌎 6,900+ travelers vaccinated for global health safety

  • 😷 300,000+ influenza and COVID-19 vaccines administered

  • 🧑‍⚕️ 46,000+ healthcare providers, first aiders, and laypersons trained through ProAction

  • 🏫 1,600+ students reached through CPR in Schools

  • 🚑 2,174 EMTs trained and certified

  • 🩸 3,100+ trained in Stop the Bleed and other emergency skills

  • 🏥 Over 16,900 event medical deployments, ensuring safety at festivals, marathons, and public events

These milestones were made possible through collaboration with local foundations, healthcare systems, school districts, and corporate partners who share our mission.

A Future Built on Community Resilience

Our journey is far from over. With El Paso’s needs growing and the call for first responders louder than ever, ProAction is expanding in several ways:

  • Scholarship programs to remove financial barriers for EMT students

  • Simulation-based training labs to provide high-fidelity, hands-on education

  • Outreach to bilingual, veteran, and high school candidates, strengthening equity in emergency response fields

  • Public health collaborations to increase access to routine and emergency immunizations

“ProAction’s legacy is written in lives saved and communities strengthened,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director. “As we enter our fourth decade, we remain committed to empowering the next generation of lifesavers.”

Join Us in Shaping the Next 30 Years

Support our mission of accessible, high-quality emergency training for all.

Make a gift today: www.pro-action.org/donate

Together, we’re building a healthier, safer, more prepared El Paso.

PNC Foundation Donates $10,000 to Support EMT Training at ProAction

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ProAction Emergency Services Institute is proud to announce a new partnership with the PNC Foundation, which has awarded a $10,000 grant to expand training opportunities for aspiring Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in the El Paso region.

This critical investment will support need-based scholarships and hands-on training experiences for students pursuing careers on the front lines of emergency medical care.

“We thank the PNC Foundation for helping us build the next generation of first responders,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction Emergency Services Institute. “This support makes a real difference in our ability to train qualified EMTs and strengthen emergency care in our community.”

Empowering Future First Responders

The grant will directly impact EMT students through:

  • Scholarships for students who demonstrate financial need, making training more accessible to all

  • Enhanced practical learning in our high-fidelity simulation labs, where students develop critical real-world skills

  • Outreach initiatives targeting high-school health science students, military veterans, and bilingual candidates — broadening representation and diversity within the EMS field

About ProAction Emergency Services Institute

As a division of ProAction Inc., our Emergency Services Institute trains hundreds of students annually in life-saving programs including EMT certification, CPR/First Aid, and Stop the Bleed. Our graduates go on to serve in ambulances, hospitals, fire departments, and special event medical teams across the region.

ProAction is dedicated to building a highly skilled, compassionate emergency response workforce that reflects the community it serves.

Want to Make a Difference?

Join us in building a stronger, safer El Paso.
To support scholarships and EMT training programs, please visit:
www.pro-action.org/donate

Your gift helps put lifesaving care in the hands of those who need it most.

El Paso Electric Charitable Foundation Awards $30,000 Grant to Expand EMT Training at ProAction

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ProAction Emergency Services Institute is thrilled to announce the receipt of a $30,000 grant from the El Paso Electric Charitable Foundation, aimed at expanding access to Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) education in the El Paso region.

This substantial funding supports ProAction’s ongoing commitment to building a highly trained emergency medical workforce. Through this grant, aspiring EMTs—many of whom face financial barriers—will gain access to vital training, equipment, and hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them to respond confidently in real-world emergencies.

“EMTs are often the first on scene during medical crises,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction Emergency Services Institute. “With this support from the El Paso Electric Charitable Foundation, we can train more students and eliminate financial barriers for those driven to make a difference.”

How the Grant Will Be Used

The grant will strengthen EMT education in several key areas:

  • Scholarships for students who need financial support to enroll in EMT training

  • Enhanced training experiences, including simulation labs and field ride-alongs

  • Upgraded emergency medical equipment for student training and preparedness

Building the Next Generation of First Responders

Each year, ProAction trains hundreds of individuals in life-saving programs like EMT certification, CPR/First Aid, and Stop the Bleed. Graduates serve in diverse emergency roles across ambulance services, hospitals, fire departments, and public event medical teams throughout El Paso and beyond.

This grant ensures more students can pursue this vital career path—strengthening the emergency response infrastructure of our entire region.

Learn more about how to begin your EMT journey: www.pro-action.org/ems

Help Us Save More Lives

Your support makes a direct impact. To contribute toward EMT scholarships and training programs, visit our donation page at
👉 www.2paths1purpose.org

Every gift helps shape the next generation of life-saving professionals.

GECU Foundation Donates $13,500 to ProAction Emergency Services Institute to Support EMT Student Scholarships and EMT Program

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The GECU Foundation has made a significant contribution of $13,500 to ProAction Emergency Services Institute to assist with the operational costs of its Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program and provide scholarships to aspiring EMT students. This generous donation will play a vital role in increasing the number of trained EMTs in our community, addressing a crucial need for emergency medical professionals. This marks the second time the GECU Foundation has supported ProAction in benefiting EMT students and advancing the EMT program.

“On behalf of ProAction, I am beyond grateful to the GECU Foundation for their continued support of our EMT program. The generous contribution turns dreams into reality for students aspiring to become certified EMTs. Truly, we are paying it forward as these students may be the ones who are called upon to save our lives or the lives of a loved one. This is another example of the GECU Foundation’s dedication to the health and safety of our communities,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction Emergency Services Institute.

GECU Foundation Executive Director Emmeline Garcia emphasized the foundation’s commitment to the community: “We’re honored to closely work with ProAction to improve two of our community’s most critical needs — education and health. Our contribution will give four deserving students the opportunity to achieve their educational and career goals while increasing the EMT presence for a healthier and safer region.”

ProAction Emergency Services Institute has graduated thousands of EMT students, providing them with the skills and training necessary to become licensed Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals. Career paths for EMTs extend beyond ambulance response and include opportunities as firefighters, hospital technicians, EMS instructors, and more.

The GECU Foundation’s continued support highlights its dedication to fostering education, health, and workforce development within our community. By investing in the training of future EMTs, GECU is not only supporting students but also contributing to the overall well-being and safety of the region.

Leadership Women logo

ProAction’s Event Medical Services Director Paloma Leyva Inducted into Leadership Women Texas 2025

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ProAction Emergency Services Institute is proud to announce that our Event Medical Services Director, Palomaimage of Paloma Leyva, medical team director Leyva, has been selected as an inductee into Leadership Women Texas 2025. This prestigious honor places Ms. Leyva among a distinguished group of women leaders chosen from hundreds of applicants across the state.

For over 44 years, Leadership Women Texas has been dedicated to fostering the growth and development of women leaders across various industries. Through dynamic programming, the organization equips its members with the tools and insights needed to expand their leadership capabilities, engage with critical societal issues, and drive meaningful change within their communities and professional fields.

Reflecting on her induction, Ms. Leyva shared, “I’m excited to strengthen my leadership skills, lead with greater insight, raise up fellow women leaders, and positively impact my community. I’m looking forward to participating in Leadership Women Texas’ programs. I’m ready for the adventure!”

ProAction Executive Director Henry Brutus commended Ms. Leyva’s achievement, stating, “Mrs. Leyva’s acceptance into the Texas Leadership Women Program is a testament to her unwavering dedication, perseverance, and leadership. As a quiet yet highly effective leader, she has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and community. Her commitment to service makes her an ideal candidate for this prestigious program. We, at ProAction, are incredibly proud of Mrs. Leyva and excited to see how this opportunity further hones her leadership skills, amplifying her impact on our organization and the broader community.”

Ms. Leyva leads ProAction’s Event Medical Services team, overseeing a dedicated group of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) who provide vital emergency medical response at thousands of events across El Paso, its surrounding communities, and in New Mexico. Her leadership has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of event attendees, reinforcing ProAction’s commitment to community health and emergency preparedness.

ProAction congratulates Ms. Leyva on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to seeing her continued growth and impact as part of Leadership Women Texas 2025.

 

Texas Mutual Awards $45K Workforce Development Grant to ProAction Emergency Services Institute

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ProAction Emergency Services Institute is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a 2024 Workforce Development grant from Texas Mutual Insurance Company. This generous $45,000 grant will directly support ProAction’s mission to train the next generation of emergency medical responders, equipping students with essential skills in the rapidly expanding field of emergency medical services (EMS).

“This grant from Texas Mutual is a tremendous boost for our training programs,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction. “It will allow us to reach even more individuals who are passionate about EMS and ready to serve their community. We are grateful for Texas Mutual’s commitment to workforce development and look forward to seeing the impact this funding will have on our students and on public safety.”

Since its founding, ProAction has worked tirelessly to enhance community health through programs like immunization clinics, CPR and first-aid training, and EMS support for local events. With Texas Mutual’s investment, ProAction is well-positioned to continue its vital work in building a skilled, prepared EMS workforce that benefits the entire community.

Bank of America Awards $15K Grant to Support ProAction’s First Responder Training in El Paso

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ProAction Emergency Services Institute has received a generous $15,000 grant from Bank of America to further its mission of educating and training future first responders. This support will significantly impact the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) field in the Borderland, a region where the need for skilled medical professionals is growing.

ProAction is a non-profit organization that provides training for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). Upon completion of the program and state certification, graduates embark on careers as first responders, including 911 ambulance responders, firefighters, and emergency room technicians. This vital training helps fill critical healthcare positions that remain unfilled across the region, making a direct impact on public health and safety.

A Vital Contribution to a Growing Need

Bank of America’s donation addresses two urgent needs in the region: workforce development and healthcare readiness. First responders are integral to the safety of our communities, and ProAction’s EMS education program sets individuals on a path to a rewarding career in healthcare. As of today, there are over 100 unfilled first responder positions across local private ambulance companies, with additional vacancies in the El Paso Fire Department. The grant will enable ProAction to train more EMTs and fill these gaps, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

“Bank of America is a true champion for the health and safety of El Paso and neighboring communities,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction. “Their donation will support a program that not only changes lives by providing medical training but also helps save lives by ensuring more trained professionals are available to respond to emergencies.”

Supporting the Health and Safety of the Borderland

The EMS field in El Paso is in critical need of more professionals. According to local reports, the ratio of EMS workers in El Paso County is just 233.8 per 100,000 residents, highlighting the need for trained professionals in emergency medical response.

“ProAction Emergency Services Institute has a track record of producing highly capable first responders,” said Kristi Marcum, President of Bank of America El Paso. “This grant aligns with our commitment to responsible growth by investing in programs that address the workforce needs of El Paso and the healthcare demands of the region.”

About ProAction Emergency Services Institute

Founded in 1995, ProAction is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to training and educating individuals in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). As an approved Texas Department of State Health Services EMS provider, ProAction also offers Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support through its affiliation as a training center with the American Health Association. Additionally, ProAction provides EMS medical support for community events, making it a trusted resource for both training and medical emergency services in the region.

For more information about ProAction’s programs and services, visit ProActionEMS.org.

PNC Foundation Supports ProAction Emergency Services Institute with a Generous Grant

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We are excited to announce that the PNC Foundation has awarded a significant grant to ProAction Emergency Services Institute, bolstering our mission to improve the lives and health of our community through life-saving services and education. This grant marks another step forward in our collective effort to ensure that vital health services and emergency medical training are accessible to all, particularly in underserved areas.

ProAction Emergency Services Institute has been a pillar in West Texas and Southern New Mexico for over 25 years, providing top-notch emergency medical training and services. The PNC Foundation’s grant will directly support ProAction’s critical programs, including Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, First Aid, CPR certifications, and community outreach initiatives. These programs play a crucial role in preparing individuals to respond to medical emergencies, equipping them with the skills necessary to save lives when every second counts.

Impacting Lives through Education and Training

Through this partnership, ProAction will be able to expand its educational resources, providing scholarships to aspiring EMTs and emergency responders. This is particularly important as many individuals who dream of serving their communities are often held back by financial barriers. By removing these barriers, ProAction and the PNC Foundation are opening doors for future first responders, ensuring that our community has a well-prepared and robust emergency response system.

Moreover, the grant will help ProAction continue offering free or low-cost CPR and First Aid training, directly contributing to the health and safety of the broader community. In an area where quick access to emergency care can be a challenge, these skills empower everyday citizens to step in and provide critical assistance before professional help arrives.

A Shared Vision for Community Health

Both ProAction and the PNC Foundation share a common goal: to strengthen communities through health, education, and access to essential services. This partnership underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing the unique challenges faced by our region.

“Our work focuses on creating healthy, prepared communities,” says Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction Emergency Services Institute. “The PNC Foundation’s support allows us to continue this mission, ensuring that emergency care and life-saving education are within reach for everyone, regardless of their financial situation. We are deeply grateful for their investment in the future of our community.”

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, this grant will not only enhance ProAction’s training and educational programs but will also help to save lives. By empowering both professionals and everyday citizens with essential medical knowledge, ProAction is building a more resilient community capable of responding effectively in times of crisis.

This partnership is a shining example of how organizations can come together to create meaningful change, and we look forward to the continued success and growth of this initiative.

Stay tuned for updates on the impact of this grant and more opportunities to get involved with ProAction and our life-saving programs. For more information about our services or to learn how you can support our mission, visit ProAction’s website.

Brightening Futures in EMS: El Paso Electric Foundation Powers ProAction’s Mission with $25K Grant

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ProAction Emergency Services Institute proudly announces a $25,000 grant from the El Paso Electric Foundation to fund scholarships for students training to become Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). This meaningful support directly addresses the shortage of emergency medical personnel in the El Paso region, helping to build a stronger, more resilient community.

For nearly 30 years, ProAction has led the way in EMT training, producing approximately 150 skilled graduates each year who are ready to respond to the community’s emergency medical needs. Thanks to the El Paso Electric Foundation’s generous contribution, more students will now have the opportunity to pursue this rewarding career, with tuition and fees covered for qualified applicants. This grant ensures a steady pipeline of skilled emergency responders dedicated to the safety and health of El Paso residents.

“We are incredibly grateful for the El Paso Electric Foundation’s support,” said Henry Brutus, Executive Director of ProAction. “This donation helps aspiring EMTs achieve their goals and strengthens emergency services across the region.”

ProAction’s EMT program is designed to deliver both classroom and hands-on clinical training, equipping graduates with the knowledge and experience needed to respond effectively in emergency situations. This partnership with the El Paso Electric Foundation reinforces ProAction’s longstanding commitment to enhancing healthcare and public safety in the region.

 

Marathon Fuels ProAction with $25K Grant for Future EMS Heroes

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In an exciting development for first-responder education, ProAction has been awarded a generous $25,000 grant from Marathon Community Investment Programs. This funding is set to support ProAction’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program, a vital part of the organization’s mission to broaden educational and career opportunities in emergency services.

The grant aligns seamlessly with ProAction’s goal to inspire new career pathways in emergency medical services (EMS). By equipping students with critical skills and knowledge, ProAction’s EMT program not only prepares them for fulfilling careers but also contributes to the public safety of El Paso and surrounding communities. “We are thrilled about this grant,” shared Education Director Luis Ortiz, highlighting that the funding will help reach those who may not have previously considered a career in EMS. Ortiz added that Marathon’s support will not only enhance educational opportunities but also bolster public safety.

Marathon Community Investment Programs share in this vision, with VJ Smith, Government & Public Affairs Manager at Marathon Petroleum, expressing Marathon’s commitment to impactful partnerships. “Our goal is to invest in organizations that make a meaningful difference in the communities we operate,” stated Smith, underscoring the synergy between Marathon’s mission and ProAction’s community-focused efforts.

Founded in 1995, ProAction is a non-profit dedicated to enhancing healthcare access and education across the Borderland. From immunization outreach to EMS training and event medical services, ProAction has consistently evolved to meet the health and safety needs of West Texas and Southern New Mexico. This new grant from Marathon Community Investment Programs marks a significant milestone in ProAction’s journey to empower and educate the next generation of first responders, enriching both individual lives and community well-being.

With Marathon’s support, ProAction is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact on local EMS training, continuing its legacy as a trusted provider of emergency medical education and services in El Paso.