The North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs (NCAFC) has received a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant.
The two-year, $839,380 funding allotment would support firefighter recruitment and retention. The NCAFC is partnering with the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) to aid communities in achieving a viable and sustainable volunteer firefighting workforce across North Carolina.
According to officials, the grant would establish a statewide volunteer firefighter outreach campaign via social media, radio ads, recruitment videos, and an updated website.
“Being a volunteer is a rewarding experience and one of the best ways someone can make a difference in the community,” the IAFC wrote regarding the NCAFC grant award. “The skills and experience gained as a volunteer firefighter are invaluable and 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 when needed.”
The IAFC and NCAFC noted that 15 departments and/or county fire associations would be selected to receive tailored assistance that includes customized recruitment materials, as well as a new technology-based toolkit to capture necessary recruitment and retention data, among other resources.