Communities across the country rely on volunteer firefighters, EMS providers, and rescue workers to answer the call. These volunteers serve their communities in an extraordinary way, responding to all kinds of emergencies. Support or auxiliary volunteers also make a big impact, providing rehab, fire prevention education, administrative assistance, fundraising, and more.
Use National Volunteer Week, April 7-13, to let your dedicated volunteers know how important they are to your department and your community. Showcase their work in announcements, social media posts, and press releases. Host an awards banquet, ceremony, or family day to honor their dedication and hard work. Ask your local officials to issue a National Volunteer Week proclamation recognizing the volunteers in your community. Show your appreciation with a “thank you,” handwritten note, pin, challenge coin, certificate, or other token of gratitude.
Most volunteer departments are looking for new recruits, and National Volunteer Week is a great time to ask your community members to step up and serve. The Make Me A Firefighter™ campaign portal at https://portal.nvfc.org provides free tools such as video PSAs, event planning tips, social media posts, flyers, and customizable recruitment materials to help. Make sure to add your department’s opportunities to the national database so prospective volunteers can find you when visiting www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.
We thank all of the volunteers who serve in our nation’s fire and emergency services. Your commitment and dedication make a real difference to the community. The National Volunteer Fire Council is here to support you through programs, resources, training, information, and more. Members receive a myriad of benefits including an AD&D policy, free training through our Virtual Classroom, and access to the Volunteer Voices forum to connect with responders from across the country. Learn more and join today at www.nvfc.org/BeYourBest.