Application period open from noon ET on May 4 to noon ET on May 7. Eligible volunteer fire departments can apply for a grant to help fund needed equipment. 150 departments will each receive a $10,000 grant.
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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 May 7 at 2pm ET for the Roundtable Talk - Training Under Pressure — Addressing Volunteer Firefighter Training Challenges
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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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Volunteer firefighters don’t have unlimited time to train. Jobs. Family. Calls. It all competes. Join the NVFC on May 7 at 2pm ET for a live Roundtable Talk on how departments are making training work in the real world. Learn how to: • Train smarter with limited time • Work within tight budgets • Use training to improve retention • Stay ready without burning out your team 👉 Save your spot: https://buff.ly/LNrtAnp This Roundtable Talk is sponsored by Vector Solutions
After a historic shutdown, the Department of Homeland Security has officially reopened. For the fire and emergency services community, this means critical funding and support are back in place for programs and agencies we rely on every day, including the FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency. Disruptions to DHS funding put essential resources at risk, from AFG and SAFER grants to training, coordination, and national response capabilities. Volunteer departments depend on these programs to remain equipped, staffed, and ready to respond. The NVFC continues to advocate for strong, stable investment in the fire and emergency services.
Volunteer fire and EMS leaders are being asked to do more than ever before. Build stronger teams. Navigate growing demands. Lead with confidence. The 2026 NVFC Training Summit delivers real-world strategies you can take back to your department. Join us June 26–27 in Arlington, VA. 🔗 www.nvfc.org/summit
A new study on volunteer firefighter recruitment and retention takes a closer look at how training structures, requirements, and delivery methods impact departments. The findings confirm that training plays a critical role in both attracting and keeping volunteers, but challenge the assumption that training hours alone are the main barrier. What does make a difference? How training is delivered, how flexible it is, and how well it fits into volunteers’ lives. If your department is looking to strengthen recruitment and retention, this research is worth a look. 👉 View the key takeaways or download the full report: https://buff.ly/rpELMoY
With a focus on health, safety, and sustainability, Fire-Dex offers innovative products and services such as turnout gear, alternative PPE, boots, hoods, gloves, helmets, and PPE rentals. On this #thankfulthursday we appreciate their NVFC Advocate membership! Learn more: https://buff.ly/3QQObXK
🔥May 4-7 ONLY: Apply for a $10,000 Fire Department Grant! State Farm® and the NVFC are teaming up again to support volunteer fire departments through the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program. $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. The application period will be open from noon ET on May 4 to noon ET on May 7. Don’t wait – prep your application now with guidance, FAQs, and more! www.nvfc.org/statefarm
Meet NVFC member Barry Kushnir of the Wanamassa Fire Company in Ocean Township, NJ. Barry joined the fire service in 2023 to fulfill a lifelong dream. From responding to calls to teaching kids during Fire Prevention Week, Barry brings passion, purpose, and a strong commitment to serving his community every day. 👉 Read his full NVFC Member Spotlight: https://buff.ly/uPVBj8i
Volunteer EMS is facing real challenges and it’s time to talk about it. Join the NVFC on May 12 at 2pm ET for the Roundtable Talk Crisis at the Crossroads: Addressing EMS Recruitment and Retention in Volunteer Departments. Hear from fire and EMS leaders as they dig into what’s driving the struggle to recruit and retain volunteers, from the time and cost of training to work-life balance, economic pressures, leadership gaps, and the growing disconnect between community expectations and the realities of volunteering. 👉 Register here: https://buff.ly/zHuRAgp
Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is May 2. Is your department ready? 🔥🌲 This national day of action is all about reducing wildfire risk and helping communities stay safe. The Wildland Fire Assessment Program offers free online training plus ready-to-use tools to help your department conduct home safety assessments in the wildland-urban interface. It’s a simple way to make a real impact in your community. 👉 Start the training and access resources: https://buff.ly/gfnXWCH
Looking to build the next generation of your department? Junior firefighter programs don’t just teach skills. They create a pipeline for future volunteers and leaders. For a limited time, the NVFC’s Training the Next Generation series is available FREE in the Virtual Classroom. This four-part course helps department leaders and junior program advisors strengthen mentorship, prioritize safety, and build sustainable programs. 👉 Start the course: https://buff.ly/7zJLwRv
🚨 Final Call! Last chance to take part in Nutella Stacks for Giving Back, in partnership with NVFC and Pearl Milling Company: ✔️ Ten $5,000 grants ✔️ 350 Pancake Breakfast Kits Applications and nominations close April 30. 👉 https://buff.ly/AyV92M1
We honor the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of those who gave their lives in service. ❤️🚒 The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend will take place May 2–3 at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, recognizing 204 firefighters who died in the line of duty. Through the Candlelight Service and Memorial Service, families, departments, and communities will gather to remember their sacrifice and legacy. Take time to honor fallen firefighters in your own community and learn more about this year’s tribute. 👉 Find details, see who is being honored, and ways to participate: https://buff.ly/RPoa5kP
🧯 Does your department need new gear? Applications are open for MSA’s Globe Gear Giveaway! In 2026, 13 volunteer fire departments will each receive four sets of Globe® turnout gear and MSA Cairns® helmets through this annual program provided by MSA Fire, Nomex® and Kevlar® for Personal Protection, and the NVFC. Apply by June 1 at www.nvfc.org/gear.
Only ONE Week Away! The 2026 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program application period will be open from noon ET on May 4 to noon ET on May7 only. Is your department ready? 💰 150 volunteer fire departments will receive $10,000 each 🎁 First 2,000 applicants get a FREE NVFC membership 📅 Don’t wait – prep your application now with guidance, FAQs, and more: https://buff.ly/w2gDvox
Training looks different when your team is balancing jobs, family, and the call to serve. Join the NVFC on May 7 at 2pm ET for a Roundtable Talk: Training Under Pressure — Addressing Volunteer Firefighter Training Challenges. Hear from industry leaders as they break down real challenges volunteer departments face and share practical ways to: • Make training more efficient • Work within limited time and budgets • Use training to support retention • Maintain readiness without burning out your team 🎤 Moderator: David Bullard 👥 Panelists: Jeff Cash, Brian Focht, Robbi King, and Matt Shronts 👉 Save your spot: https://buff.ly/LNrtAnp This Roundtable Talk is sponsored by Vector Solutions
The NVFC is at FDIC International! Our team is on site connecting with fire and emergency service leaders from across the country, sharing resources, and talking about the programs and support available to volunteer departments. NVFC Director Dave Lewis (Maryland) and NVFC Director Gary Zehring (Ohio) are here alongside NVFC staff to greet you, answer questions, and chat about what’s happening in the volunteer fire service. We’ve also had some fun moments at the booth, including a visit from CRACKYL Magazine 🔥 If you’re at FDIC, make sure to stop by and say hi. We’d love to connect with you! 🚒
As part of the NVFC’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’re continuing our State Association Spotlight series. This week, we’re highlighting the NC State Firefighters' Association and its long-standing legacy of supporting the state’s fire service since 1887. North Carolina is home to more than 54,000 firefighters, many of whom serve as volunteers, making it one of the largest volunteer fire service systems in the country. That commitment to service is matched by a strong sense of community and support across the state. Through scholarships, training grants, the NC Firefighter Cancer Benefit, and other resources, the association continues to invest in the firefighters who serve North Carolina every day. Encouraging NVFC membership is one more way the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association supports the firefighters who serve their communities every day. Join today for just $24/year and stand with volunteers across North Carolina and nationwide 👉 nvfc.org/join
This #thankfulthursday, we’re proud to recognize Alpine Software as an Advocate Member of the NVFC. For more than 30 years, Alpine Software has supported fire departments with solutions built specifically for the fire service. Their platform, RedAlert, brings scheduling, inspections, dispatch, permitting, and compliance into one fully integrated system, helping departments stay organized, efficient, and ready to respond. Thank you to Alpine Software for supporting the volunteer fire and emergency services community. 🚒 Learn more: https://buff.ly/Lmnj1b3
📣 Planning to apply for the State Farm® Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program and have questions? Join the NVFC for live Office Hours on: - April 24 at 1 pm ET - May 4 at 3 pm ET - May 6 at 7 pm ET No registration required — just drop in. 🔗 Get the Zoom link & details: https://buff.ly/SjXUMn3
🎉 Celebrate #NationalVolunteerWeek Looking for a meaningful way to say thank you to the volunteer firefighters and EMS responders in your life? An NVFC membership is a powerful gift that supports, equips, and empowers the volunteers who protect our communities. With an NVFC membership, they’ll receive: ✅ Free training & resources ✅ Access to special opportunities & giveaways ✅ Discounts on gear, equipment & wellness tools ✅ A national community of support Honor their service with a membership that gives back all year long! 🔗https://buff.ly/kKwnm54
⏰ Time is running out NVFC members have until April 30 at noon ET to enter for a chance to win a Cairns® 1836 Fire Helmet from MSA Fire. This helmet combines a traditional design with modern features to meet the needs of today’s fire service. Only one winner will be selected this round. This is the first of four opportunities in 2026. 👉 Enter now: www.nvfc.org/helmet
It’s #NationalVolunteerWeek! This week, we celebrate the selfless service of volunteer firefighters and EMS responders who give their all to protect our communities. ❤️🚒 The NVFC is here to support YOU with a variety of special opportunities — from grants and giveaways to free training, wellness tools, and gear discounts. These programs are designed to thank, reward, train, and equip the volunteers who make a difference every day. 🔗 Explore what’s available now: https://buff.ly/GPOaFSq
Time is running out! Don’t miss your chance to: • Apply for a $5,000 grant • Nominate a department for the chance to receive a Pancake Breakfast Kit Deadline: April 30 👉 https://buff.ly/AyV92M1
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