**RCMSAR 34 Marine Rescue Society**  
The **RCMSAR 34 Marine Rescue Society** (registered charity number 890953946RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization responsible for fundraising and operational support for Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCM-SAR) Station 34, a volunteer marine rescue unit based in Cowichan Bay, British Columbia.  

### Overview  
As part of the RCM-SAR network, the society ensures funding for the purchase, maintenance, and replacement of search-and-rescue equipment, including rescue vessels. Station 34 operates under the broader RCM-SAR system, which coordinates over 30 marine rescue stations across British Columbia. The society emphasizes that all donations directly fund equipment, with no administrative fees or paid employees.  

### Operations  
Station 34’s volunteer crew responds to marine emergencies 24/7, including capsized vessels, distressed paddlers (kayakers, paddleboarders, etc.), and humanitarian crises such as evacuating individuals stranded due to housing insecurity. The unit collaborates with agencies like the Canadian Coast Guard, RCMP, BC Ambulance, and local First Nations, including Cowichan Tribes.  

### Key Activities  
- **Emergency Response**: Missions include fire support, medical evacuations, and transporting emergency personnel to inaccessible areas. Their rescue craft reaches speeds of 40 knots (75 km/h) for rapid deployment[^5^].  
- **Training**: Volunteers undergo specialized training in search-and-rescue techniques and maritime safety protocols.  
- **Community Partnerships**: Works with provincial entities like the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (formerly Emergency Management BC).  

### Governance  
The society’s leadership includes a board of directors overseeing fundraising and equipment procurement. Notable roles include:  
- **President**: Paul Haesman  
- **Vice President**: (Position listed as vacant in available records)  
- **Treasurer/Secretary**: Brian Buchanan  

### Funding  
Primary funding sources include public donations and incidental reimbursements from Fisheries and Oceans Canada for fuel and insurance during active missions. The society’s charitable status ensures tax-deductible contributions[^2^][^4^].  

### Recognition  
In 2024, the organization received a $7,600 donation from Warmland Women, highlighting its community-driven support network[^2^].