May 3, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Local HERO Foundation Announces Transformative Partnership with Inter Pipeline
Fort McMurray, AB — The Local Helicopter Emergency Response Organization (HERO) Foundation is proud to announce a significant commitment from Inter Pipeline (IPL). IPL has pledged $225,000 over three years to support vital helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. This multi-year partnership will help sustain critical lifesaving missions, ensuring the region’s remote communities, worksites and camps, those driving our highways, and those using our vast lands for recreation and work have access to urgent, high-quality care when it matters most.
“Inter Pipeline’s generous support is a true game-changer for Local HERO Foundation and the communities we serve. Their commitment will enable us to keep delivering quick, reliable medevac services 24/7 across our widespread region, where every minute can mean the difference between life and death,” said Lorna Ash, Executive Director of the Local HERO Foundation. “With their partnership, we’ll continue to enhance the safety and health of our communities, providing peace of mind to those living, working, and playing in our region.
Local HERO Foundation’s Board Chair Bryce Kumka added, “This substantial gift from Inter Pipeline not only reflects their corporate commitment to community safety but will also serve as a stabilizing force for our operations, helping us meet the demand for critical services. It’s partnerships like these that enable Local HERO to remain resilient and responsive to the needs of the region.”
Inter Pipeline recognizes the unique value of the Local HERO Foundation’s services and the dedication it brings to Northern Alberta. “We are honored to partner with the Local HERO Foundation and support their extraordinary work,” said Kyle DeGruchy, Senior Vice President, Transportation. “At Inter Pipeline, we believe in investing in the safety and well-being of the communities where we live and operate, and we are proud to support a service that has such a profound impact on people’s lives.”
This three-year pledge from Inter Pipeline will help ensure that the Local HERO Foundation can continue to provide urgent medical care and transportation to those who need it most, even in the most remote regions of Wood Buffalo. The Local HERO Foundation expresses its sincere gratitude to Inter Pipeline for their generosity and commitment to the health and safety of our region.
About Local HERO Foundation
Founded in 2013, the Local HERO Foundation provides vital helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) for the people of Northeastern Alberta. Operating 24/7/365 with the aid of Transport Canada approved night vision goggles. Local HERO’s H-135 helicopter is fitted with an Air Ambulance Technologies medical interior which includes a LIFEPAK monitor/defibrillator, oxygen supply, and medical suction system. Since its inception, Local HERO has responded to over 700 missions, serving as a lifeline for residents across Northeastern Alberta.
About Inter Pipeline
Inter Pipeline is a world-scale energy infrastructure business engaged in the transportation, processing, marketing and storage of commodities and petrochemical products across Western Canada and Europe.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Local HERO Foundation
Lorna Ash,
Executive Director
[email protected]
Inter Pipeline
Steven Noble
Manager, Corporate Communications
[email protected]