Apply by April 30 for a chance to be selected for a $5,000 grant to fund needed department resources, and nominate your fire department for the chance to win a Nutella Pancake Breakfast Kit for your next fundraiser.
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Join us for the 2026 NVFC Training Summit, June 26-27, in Arlington, VA.
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Join us on April 23 at 2pm ET for the Webinar - Start Strong: Effective Onboarding for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS
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The NVFC marks its 50th anniversary this year. Celebrate with us by taking a trip down memory lane through our retrospective timeline of milestones and highlights from the past 50 years.
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New volunteers are your future. Set them up for success from day one. Join the NVFC on April 23 at 2pm ET for the webinar Start Strong: Effective Onboarding for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS, presented by Pam Rogers. Learn practical strategies to improve your onboarding process, set clear expectations, and keep new members engaged and committed. 👉 Register now: https://buff.ly/YF725rD
🔥 COMING SOON: $1.5 Million in Grants State Farm® and the NVFC are teaming up again to support volunteer fire departments through the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program! In 2026, $1.5 million in grant funding will be awarded to 150 departments – each receiving $10,000 to purchase critical equipment that boosts firefighter safety and performance. States with 10 or more eligible applications are guaranteed at least one grant recipient. 🗓️ Mark your calendar: Application window opens at noon ET on May 4 and closes at noon ET on May 7 – only 3 days to apply! Learn more: www.nvfc.org/statefarm
Congratulations to Plano Fire Explorers Post 215, recipient of the Junior Firefighter Program of the Year Award. Since 1988, the program has provided young adults with hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world experience that prepares them for a future in the fire service. Through a structured, department-style model, Explorers gain leadership skills, accountability, and a strong foundation in public safety. In 2025 alone, members completed more than 3,200 hours of training, station ride-outs, and community service, showing a deep commitment to both learning and serving their community. Congratulations to the members and leaders of Post 215 on this well-deserved recognition. 🚒 👉 Read more about this program and this year’s award recipients: https://buff.ly/am9IK3O This award is sponsored by California Casualty
🚒 Have questions about the State Farm® Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program? We have answers! The NVFC is hosting live Office Hours on April 24 at 1 pm ET to answer your questions about the program and application process. No registration needed — just click the Zoom link during office hours to join. 🔗 Details and Zoom info can be found at www.nvfc.org/statefarm
Responding on the roadway comes with serious risks. Are you prepared? Join the Federal Highway Administration and National Operations Center of Excellence for a Talking TIM Webinar on April 22 from 1:30–3:00pm ET to learn about national traffic incident management efforts, emerging research, and upcoming safety campaigns focused on protecting responders and the traveling public. This session will cover: • National Day of TIM Training • Factors contributing to secondary crashes • Planning for Crash Responder Safety Week 2026 Gain insights, proven practices, and strategies to improve coordination and safety on the roadway. Register now: https://buff.ly/hy4Ellv
Beth Harrington is president of the Slaterville Volunteer Fire Company in Slaterville Springs, NY, and has been part of the fire and emergency services since 1976. A retired RN, paramedic, and emergency manager, her service reflects a deep commitment to her rural community. From life-saving calls to small acts of kindness, her impact is felt every day. Read her full NVFC member spotlight here: https://buff.ly/g175qAB
Does your community rely on volunteer firefighters… and do you even know? Across the country, volunteers are the ones responding when the call comes in. 🚒❤️ This National Volunteer Week, we’re recognizing the impact they make every day. If you’ve ever thought about stepping up or your department needs more members, Make Me A Firefighter can help connect you. Start here: www.makemeafirefighter.org
The Globe® G-XTREME® PRO Jacket features a new design with mesh channels for mobility and reduced bulk. 🔗 https://buff.ly/TJGjk6T
Firefighters in Maine came together last weekend for hazmat training focused on Teaching Hazmat Basics and Tools in Hazmat Training. Hosted by the Dover-Foxcroft Fire Department, participants gained practical knowledge they can take back to their departments and apply in the field. Thank you to NVFC instructors Bill Offerman and Bob MacKay for leading the training and supporting volunteer responders. Find more hazmat training in-person and online here: https://buff.ly/3apYBAf
🚨 Giveaway Alert The NVFC and MSA Fire are teaming up once again to give away four Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmets in 2026. The first entry period is now open! Designed with today’s firefighter in mind, this helmet delivers the performance, comfort, and protection needed on the job. Enter by April 30 👉 www.nvfc.org/helmet
The NVFC is partnering with Missioncit to provide a more comprehensive training experience for volunteer departments. MissionCIT’s interactive two-day Retention & Recruitment Officer (RRO) Development course gives participants practical tools, proven processes, and best practices to help attract and retain members. To enhance the experience, attendees will now complete the NVFC’s Essentials of Volunteer Retention and Recruitment online course in advance, available for free in the NVFC Virtual Classroom: https://buff.ly/9pZFIAG The next course takes place April 18-19 in Rochester, NY and is free to attend. Learn more and register:
This #thankfulthursday, we’re grateful for the continued support of The National HeroPlus Program, powered by Go For Answers, a Chairman’s Club member of the NVFC. For more than 25 years, the National HeroPlus Program has helped strengthen the volunteer fire service by providing retirement solutions that support recruitment and retention. Through its Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP), HeroPlus helps recognize and reward the long-term commitment of volunteer responders. Thank you for supporting the volunteer fire service and investing in those who dedicate their time to protecting others. Learn more: www.goforanswers.com
Join the NVFC on April 23 at 2pm ET for the webinar Start Strong: Effective Onboarding for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS, presented by Pam Rogers. This session will cover practical strategies to help you build or improve your onboarding process so you can set clear expectations, strengthen engagement, and retain new members. 👉 Register now: https://buff.ly/YF725rD
State Farm® and the NVFC are awarding $1.5 million in 2026! 150 volunteer fire departments will receive $10,000 to purchase needed equipment. The application period will be open May 4 at noon ET to May 7 at noon ET. 📝 Need help applying? The NVFC has your back with application tips and resources, including the free webinar Unlocking Opportunities: Tips for Crafting an NVFC Grant and Giveaway Application. Find it here: https://bit.ly/42PCRqy. Find grant specific resources at https://buff.ly/JLsyxkE.
Does your fire department need funding? Nutella Stacks for Giving Back, in partnership with NVFC and Pearl Milling Company, is awarding: 🔥 Ten $5,000 grants 🥞 350 Pancake Breakfast Kits Apply or nominate by April 30: 👉 https://buff.ly/mzauysI
Meet Grace Isakson of Texas, recipient of the Junior Firefighter of the Year Award. From completing EMT school to stepping into a leadership role as captain of her Explorer post, Grace is already making a meaningful impact in her department and community. Her commitment to training, mentorship, and service reflects the next generation of the fire service at its best. 👉 Read more about Grace and this year’s award recipients: https://buff.ly/am9IK3O This award is sponsored by California Casualty
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the Vermont State Firefighters Association and its strong commitment to supporting the volunteer fire service. Members actively engage with state legislators to give volunteers a voice, while a dedicated group meets regularly to address the needs of departments across the state. Vermont also holds a special place in NVFC history. Former Manchester Fire Chief Ted Hopkins served as the first Vermont NVFC Director and helped shape the organization’s foundation. Encouraging NVFC membership is one more way the Vermont State Firefighters Association supports those who serve their communities every day. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Vermont and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
Recruitment challenges. Increasing call volume. New safety demands. Volunteer fire and EMS departments are facing more pressure than ever. The 2026 NVFC Training Summit brings together fire service leaders to share real solutions that strengthen volunteer departments. Join us June 26–27 in Arlington, VA. www.nvfc.org/summit
NVFC staff stepped up by donating blood to support this lifesaving need in post-crash care. During a recent NVFC webinar with the NHTSA Office of EMS, we explored how advances like prehospital blood transfusion are helping improve outcomes after serious crashes, especially in rural communities. From emergency response to patient care, access to blood can make all the difference in those critical moments. Find a donation center near you ❤️: https://buff.ly/M0ReVus Watch the recorded NVFC webinar, Save More Lives on Rural Roadways: Strengthening Post-Crash Care: https://buff.ly/Y8EQXh9
Meet Frank Leeb of New York, recipient of the Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health & Wellness Leadership Award. From starting as a junior firefighter at just 14 to serving in leadership roles with FDNY and now advancing national initiatives through the First Responder Center for Excellence, Frank has dedicated his life to improving firefighter health, safety, and wellness. Through his work in cancer prevention, contamination reduction, and training, his impact is helping firefighters across the country stay safer on and off the job. 👉 Read more about Frank and this year’s award recipients: https://buff.ly/am9IK3O This award is co-sponsored by VFIS - Firefighter & EMS and Ward Diesel Filter Systems
$1.5 million is making a real impact in volunteer fire departments across the country 🚒 Through the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, State Farm, in collaboration with the NVFC, helped 150 departments purchase critical equipment that improves safety, response times, and overall readiness. From new turnout gear and radios to lifesaving rescue tools, these grants are helping departments better protect their crews and communities. 📅 Applications for 2026 will be accepted May 4–7 💰 $10,000 grants available Read how these grants are making a difference and get ready to apply:
REMINDER: Get more out of your NVFC membership 🚒 Join us tomorrow, April 14, at 2pm ET for a webinar designed to help you make the most of your member experience. Whether you're new, a longtime member, or considering joining, we’ll cover the member portal, exclusive benefits, and tips to maximize your value. 👉 Register now: https://buff.ly/uncjx8u
Please join us in welcoming our newest NVFC Sustaining Member, Emergency Technical Decon (ETD) 🚒 ETD is a full-service, NFPA 1851 verified independent service provider specializing in the advanced cleaning, inspection, and repair of firefighter turnout gear. Using liquid CO2+ technology, ETD delivers a deeper level of decontamination to help reduce exposure risks and support long-term firefighter health. With facilities in Minnesota and Oregon, ETD is committed to providing high-quality service that helps departments stay compliant, extend the life of their gear, and prioritize cancer prevention. We’re proud to have ETD as part of the NVFC community and appreciate their commitment to protecting those who serve: https://etdecon.com/
Struggling to recruit and retain volunteers? You’re not alone. The NVFC has released a new on-demand course, Essentials of Volunteer Retention and Recruitment, designed to help departments tackle one of their biggest challenges. This course covers practical strategies, common barriers, and proven approaches to help you strengthen your team and better serve your community. 👉 Take the course for FREE in the NVFC Virtual Classroom for a limited time: https://buff.ly/9pZFIAG
54 years of service. A lifetime of impact. Meet Roger Beedy of Indiana, recipient of the NVFC’s 2026 William J. Darley Lifetime Achievement Award. From starting as a volunteer at just 15 years old to serving his community in nearly every role imaginable, Roger has spent decades showing up when it matters most. Whether responding to calls, mentoring others, or supporting statewide efforts, his commitment has never wavered. “I just know that if I was hurt or needed some help, I’d hope that someone would be coming. That’s why I do it.” His story is what the volunteer fire service is all about. 👉 Read more about Roger and this year’s award recipients: https://buff.ly/am9IK3O This award is sponsored by Darley
NVFC Board member, John “Pete” Kirby (VA), and staff, David Bryson and Amanda Tegtmeyer, attended the U.S. DOT Federal Highway Administration’s National Day of Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Training at U.S. DOT Headquarters in Washington, DC, on April 9. The NVFC is doing its part to help U.S. DOT and the FHWA reach their goal of getting one million first responders trained in TIM to prevent deaths and injuries on our roadways.
This #ThankfulThursday, we’re grateful for California Casualty and their continued commitment to supporting the volunteer fire service. As a valued NVFC supporter member, California Casualty provides insurance products with exclusive benefits designed to help protect firefighters and their families. Thank you for standing with the fire and emergency services community. Learn more: https://buff.ly/aH0q4d9
Bringing on new volunteers is one of the most important things your department can do. Making sure they feel welcomed, supported, and ready to serve from day one is just as critical. Join the NVFC on April 23 at 2pm ET for the webinar Start Strong: Effective Onboarding for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS, presented by Pam Rogers. This session will cover practical strategies to help you build or improve your onboarding process so you can set clear expectations, strengthen engagement, and retain new members. 👉 Register now: https://buff.ly/YF725rD
Wildfire is no longer just a season. It’s a year-round reality. Photos from the 2026 Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Conference highlight how the fire service is coming together to face this growing challenge head on. From wildfire behavior and mitigation to real-world community engagement strategies, the conversations focused on what departments can do right now to better prepare. We’re proud to see NVFC Executive Committee Member and Wildland Fire Committee Chair Steve McClintock sharing insights on building community-driven approaches to wildfire preparedness alongside partners from across the country.
Last year, the State Farm® Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program provided $1.5 million in funding to 150 volunteer fire departments across the country. 🚒 Each $10,000 grant helped departments purchase critical equipment to better protect their crews and communities. And it’s happening again. 👀 The 2026 program is right around the corner and now is the time to prepare. The application period will be open May 4 at noon ET until May 7 at noon ET. Find guidance and resources at https://buff.ly/JLsyxkE.
NVFC members have the chance to win a personalized Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet thanks to our partner MSA Fire. ✔ Lightweight and comfortable ✔ Low ride height for improved balance ✔ Defender Visor adjusts to fit over eyewear This is the first of four chances to win in 2026. Enter by April 30 👉 www.nvfc.org/helmet
Nearly $1 billion is available to help make your roadways safer. The U.S. Department of Transportation has opened applications for the FY26 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, supporting regional, local, and tribal efforts to reduce roadway deaths and serious injuries. This year’s funding also prioritizes emergency response coordination and public safety dispatch, making it especially relevant for fire and EMS departments. 🗓️ Applications are due May 26. Learn more and apply: https://buff.ly/ah8FRsu
Get more out of your NVFC membership 🚒 Join us April 14 at 2pm ET for a webinar designed to help you make the most of your member experience. Whether you're new, a longtime member, or considering joining, we’ll cover the member portal, exclusive benefits, and tips to maximize your value. 👉 Register now: https://buff.ly/uncjx8u
Feedback Needed 🚒 Have you retired from the volunteer fire or emergency services, or planning to in the next five years? The NVFC wants to hear from you. Your experience can help shape the programs and resources that support members before, during, and after their transition out of service. Take a few minutes to share your insights and make an impact for the next generation. 👉 Take the survey by April 21: https://buff.ly/Eihg8Ry
EMS Week is May 17-23, and the NVFC is proud to be a partner in recognizing the lifesaving work of EMS professionals. This year’s theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” highlights the power of collaboration in delivering high-quality care. Join us in celebrating EMS providers and find resources to participate in the week: https://emsweek.org/
Volunteer responders protect the majority of communities across the United States. The NVFC Training Summit brings these leaders together to share ideas, build connections, and strengthen the volunteer fire service. Be part of the conversation in Arlington, VA, June 26–27. 🔗 www.nvfc.org/summit
🚗📵 April is #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth — a reminder that one moment of distraction when driving can change everything. Stay focused. Stay present. Lives depend on it.
🔥 Don’t wait, FDIC International is right around the corner 🔥 📅 April 20–25, 2026 📍 Indianapolis, Indiana Fire and rescue professionals from across the world are gearing up for unbeatable training, world‑class education, and the industry’s most cutting‑edge innovations — all in one place. From high‑impact classroom sessions and hands-on training evolutions to energizing conversations that spark fresh ideas and lasting connections, FDIC International is more than an event; it's an experience you won't want to miss. 👉 Secure your spot for #FDIC2026 now: https://buff.ly/LImaH9K
🚨 Giveaway Alert The NVFC and MSA Fire are teaming up once again to give away four Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmets in 2026. The first entry period is now open! Designed with today’s firefighter in mind, this helmet delivers the performance, comfort, and protection needed on the job. Enter by April 30 👉 www.nvfc.org/helmet
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter's Association and its 100-year legacy of representing the state’s fire service. As the First State, Delaware is home to 61 volunteer-run nonprofit fire departments and just one career department, making its fire service truly volunteer-driven. Delaware has also played a significant role in shaping the national fire service. Longtime NVFC leader E. James Monihan, a Delaware representative, helped guide the organization during its formative years and served as chairman for over a decade, leaving a lasting impact that continues today. Encouraging NVFC membership is one more way the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association supports the firefighters who serve their communities every day. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across Delaware and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
Training isn’t just a requirement, it’s what keeps firefighters ready, safe, and effective on every call. This excerpt from Training Volunteer Firefighters to Be Combat Ready, reprinted on Fire Engineering, takes a closer look at what credentialing and certification really mean in the fire service and why training must be valued, not just completed. Read the article: https://buff.ly/zpJP0hw Looking to strengthen your department’s training approach? Explore the full guide here: https://buff.ly/oKufOi8
Funding opportunity for volunteer fire departments! Apply for a $5,000 Nutella Stacks for Giving Back grant, in partnership with the NVFC and Pearl Milling Company, to help fund what your department needs most: • Equipment & gear • Training • Recruitment & retention • Community outreach Or nominate a department for the chance to receive a Pancake Breakfast Kit to fuel their next fundraiser. ⏰ Deadline: April 30 at noon ET 👉 https://buff.ly/ZsZ8uUm
This #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth, we’re grateful for the continued support of OnStar. For 25 years, OnStar has helped protect drivers through services like automatic crash response, emergency assistance, roadside support, and real-time connection to trained Advisors, playing an important role in improving roadway safety. As a valued NVFC supporter member, OnStar’s commitment helps strengthen safety for both drivers and responders. Thank you to OnStar for supporting the fire and emergency services community and helping make our roadways safer. Learn more: https://buff.ly/JC4pNAc
Chief Cory Plemmons of the Camp Creek Volunteer Fire Department in Greeneville, TN, has served since 2004 and is driven by helping others in times of need. From creating lasting memories during school fire prevention visits to building community events like a 4th of July celebration, he values connection and service. He also prioritizes crew well-being through physical and mental health support. Read his full NVFC Member Spotlight here: https://buff.ly/jEW4UF4
Is your home as safe as it could be? Firefighters see firsthand how small, everyday habits can turn into big risks at home. In this article, three NVFC board members share common behaviors they would never do in their own homes and what you should do instead to keep your family safe. These are simple changes that can make a big difference. 🔗 https://buff.ly/lV8OHqW
🚒 Make the most of your NVFC membership. Join us on April 14 at 2pm ET for a webinar on how to maximize your NVFC member experience. Whether you are new, have been a member for years, or are thinking about joining, this session will walk you through the member portal, highlight exclusive benefits, and share tips to help you get the most value from your membership. 👉 Register now: https://buff.ly/uncjx8u
National Volunteer Week is almost here(April 19-25)! To help your department prepare, the NVFC is offering Volunteer Recruitment for the Emergency Services FREE for a limited time. This course breaks down today’s recruitment challenges, shares insights from the Make Me A Firefighter campaign, and gives you practical ideas to attract new volunteers. 👉 Take the course now in the NVFC Virtual Classroom: https://buff.ly/f0wHV1P
📣 Your voice matters. Make it count. FireRescue1 is now collecting responses for its annual “What Firefighters Want” survey, and they want to hear from YOU. This year’s focus is firefighter training. How often are you training? Is it realistic, relevant, and supported by leadership? Your feedback will help shape FireRescue1’s state-of-the-industry report coming out this August. 🚒 It is important that volunteer perspectives are included. Take a few minutes to share your experience and help drive meaningful change. 👉 Take the survey now: https://buff.ly/Uu85rYP
For 15 years, MSA’s Globe Gear Giveaway has helped improve firefighter safety by providing volunteer fire departments with modern protective equipment. Through this partnership between MSA Fire, Nomex® and Kevlar® for Personal Protection, and the NVFC, 13 departments will receive a total of 52 sets of turnout gear and helmets in 2026. Apply by June 1 at www.nvfc.org/gear. 👨🚒
🚒 First impressions matter more than you think. When a prospective volunteer walks into your station, they are not just looking at your equipment. They are sizing up your culture. In this article, Walter Campbell introduces the “Kitchen Table Test.” It is a simple but powerful idea. How your crew welcomes, includes, and interacts with someone in those first few minutes can determine whether they join or walk away. 👉 Read the article and see how your department measures up: https://buff.ly/x0ve9jc