NVFC Seeking AFG, FP&S, and SAFER Grant Peer Reviewers

December 3, 2024

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is one of nine national organizations that appoint representatives to serve as peer reviewers for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant, and Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program applications through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The NVFC invites those interested in serving as a grant peer reviewer to submit an application by December 9.

To be considered as an NVFC grant peer reviewer, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Possess a volunteer background, whether as a current volunteer, retired volunteer, volunteer or career chief of a volunteer or combination department, member of a fire department auxiliary, or someone who works frequently with volunteer firefighters.
  • Be a member of the NVFC.
  • Have advanced understanding of “all hazards” capabilities of fire departments (i.e., fire suppression, EMS, hazmat, rescue, hostile events).
  • Have broad knowledge in a variety of areas within fire and emergency medical services.
  • Have a basic knowledge of the AFG, SAFER, and FP&S grant programs and their funding priorities.

Those who possess these qualifications and would like to become a peer reviewer need to fill out this application form by December 9 to be considered. The application will be reviewed by both the national NVFC office and the NVFC board member who represents the state where the applicant lives.

FEMA grant peer reviewers can conduct reviews either virtually or in-person. In-person reviews take place at FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute in Emmitsburg, MD, and FEMA will pay for lodging and travel. Reviews of AFG grant applications will take place the week of February 3. Reviews of SAFER and FP&S grant applications will take place the week of March 31.

Please review the NVFC peer review procedures document for additional information including reimbursement for travel, time commitment, and technology requirements.