The North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs, in partnership with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, has kicked off a volunteer firefighter recruitment and retention campaign.

The campaign is part of the Volunteer Workforce Solutions program designed to help fire departments in the state achieve a sustainable volunteer firefighter workforce.

The program is funded by a grant from to the Association of Fire Chiefs through the Federal Emergency Management Agency to enhance the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters. 

Fifteen North Carolina fire department groups, including more than 50 departments from across the state, were selected to participate in the two-year program and receive additional support. The South Salisbury Fire Department is one of them.

The departments will use geographic information systems to take in-depth looks at their communities, measuring demographic, cultural and economic data to create targeted recruitment and retention plans. 

The findings and the recruitment efforts will benefit all fire departments in the state. Several leadership workshops aimed at improving retention will be offered statewide. In addition, a media campaign focusing on the need for volunteer firefighters is planned. 

Being a volunteer is a rewarding experience and one of the best ways to make a difference in the community, according to a news release from the N.C. Association of Fire Chiefs. The skills and experience gained as a volunteer firefighter have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of others.

Local fire departments need volunteers of all skill levels and abilities who are willing and able to respond to emergencies. 

To learn more about becoming a volunteer firefighter and joining a local department, visit www.VolunteerFireNC.org.

For more information about the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs, visit www.ncafc.com.