Dartmouth Frontline Worker Helped Build Local COVID-19 Testing Sites

Robert Araujo is the Chief Operations Officer at Alert Ambulance Service, Inc. He’s been with the company for 15 years, but 2020 was a little different. The COVID-19 pandemic left most of us feeling confused and helpless. But Araujo rose to the challenge to make sure the SouthCoast community was safe.

“He looked at each day like it was a new learning experience and wanted to know what he could do to help the community,” said his wife, Jennifer Araujo. “Robert has worked in the healthcare field for quite some time and I can honestly say I have never met anyone with more drive than him.”

Araujo is one of the folks responsible for getting COVID-19 testing sites up and running in the area. “He spent countless hours, many sleepless nights, and time away from family, working with RIDOH and MADPH to make this happen.”

Some of the sites were put up in a matter of days. “I remember watching him take a phone call from the DPH and learning that a site with the potential of 600 to 800 COVID patients per day needed to be up and running in less than a few days’ time. This testing site was one of the first of its kind. With no clue how he was going to get it done, he looked at me and said, ‘I’m going to figure it out. No is not an option.”

Well, Araujo’s hard work paid off because he pulled it off along with seven other testing sites on the SouthCoast and in Rhode Island.

“He has quite a list of accomplishments since March of last year, but if you ask him, he will always say that he was just doing his job. I have never seen someone who can lead a company and earn the respect of the staff the way he does. He is always willing to lead by example."

Jennifer Araujo nominated her favorite essential worker to be recognized in the Spotlight SouthCoast Frontline Heroes program because "as a wife, I am incredibly in awe of him. He really is a hero!”

An employee anonymously provided a statement that we wanted to share with this submission.

“Rob Araujo is not just a boss; he is a leader. The countless hours of work he has put in have not only helped create jobs for those in need but has also, undoubtedly, saved thousands of lives. His dedication to employees and the community is one you wish every boss had. Rob is not only dedicated to his work, but he is passionate about what he does.”

Thank you, Robert, for all you do day in and day out.

If you would like to shine a light on the essential workers in your life, click HERE to nominate them for the Spotlight SouthCoast Frontline Heroes program. Let everyone know what this past year has been like for them and how proud you are to know them. This program is made possible thanks to our sponsors, Prima Care and Bay State Window & Door.