Volunteer Spotlight: Mike Jaffa

Name: Mike Jaffa
Title: Captain – Vol. Recruiting & Retention
Department Name: Santa Fe County Fire Department
Location: Santa Fe, NM

What is your career?
I am currently a paid Fire Captain but served as a volunteer firefighter for 21 years prior to accepting a paid position. I served as a volunteer in a combination department and “retired” as the Deputy Chief of the Department responsible for the entire volunteer section.

How long have you been an NVFC member? 
2 years

Why are you an NVFC member?
To interact with other volunteer organizations and gain knowledge. Volunteer recruitment and retention is a problem which not only my department faces but departments all around the country. The NVFC allows me to see how other departments are dealing with this specific issue.

Why are you a volunteer firefighter?
Even though I am currently in a paid position, I was a volunteer Firefighter for 22 years. I joined to serve my community and become a leader within my community.

How long have you been in the fire service?
29 years

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
I take great pride in bringing new, young members into the fire service, helping train them to become fire service professionals, and watching them grow in their careers.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
My department makes great contributions to our community every day. We strive to provide great, compassionate service to anyone who needs our services. My personal contribution recently has been to serve as the chair of the newly formed Company Officers Section of the IAFC. This role allows me to not only give back and contribute to my community, but to the fire service on an international scale.

* Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.