Proposals for the NVFC 2026 Training Summit are now being accepted from qualified instructors and speakers to present educational sessions at the conference.
US volunteer firefighters to gain new online learning tools through major funding boost
Motorola Solutions Foundation provides $30,000 grant
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has announced it has received a $30,000 grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation to support online learning and new training courses.
According to the NVFC, the funding will be used to expand access to its Virtual Classroom platform and to develop a new in-person behavioural health course.
NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch said: “We thank the Motorola Solutions Foundation for their continued support of the NVFC’s training programs.
“Training is consistently the number one resource our audience requests, and thanks to this grant we can provide needed training to even more responders both online and in-person.”
The organisation said the grant continues a long partnership with the Foundation, which has supported various responder training initiatives.
Focus of the Motorola Solutions Foundation
The Motorola Solutions Foundation said it has donated more than $100 million over the past decade to charitable programmes worldwide.
The Foundation explained that its giving priorities focus on first responder programming, technology and engineering education, and initiatives combining both fields.
It added that it also works to support programmes that benefit under-resourced communities.
The Foundation said it seeks to partner with organisations aligned with its values of accountability, innovation, impact and inclusion.
Comments from the Foundation
Wesley Barden Touhy, executive director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation, said: “We are inspired by the impactful work of the NVFC within their community.
“The Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to champion their efforts as they continue to grow and make a positive difference.”
The Foundation confirmed that this partnership continues its aim to invest in safer communities through grants and volunteer programmes.
About the NVFC
The NVFC said it is the national membership association representing the interests of volunteer fire, EMS and rescue services in the United States.
The organisation explained that it provides resources, education, advocacy and programmes to support first responders nationwide.
It added that the NVFC acts as a representative voice for volunteers at the national level.
Further information is available at www.nvfc.org.
About the Motorola Solutions Foundation
The Motorola Solutions Foundation described itself as the charitable and philanthropic arm of Motorola Solutions.
It explained that it partners with organisations worldwide to support safer cities and resilient communities through grants, employee volunteer work and investment initiatives.
The Foundation added that its strategic grants programme backs organisations focused on responder training and technology and engineering education.
More details can be found at www.motorolasolutions.com/foundation.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This grant provides further training opportunities for volunteer firefighters and emergency responders through online learning.
The new behavioural health course addresses a growing area of need for responders.
The NVFC Virtual Classroom and added in-person training will extend access to education across the United States.
Volunteer fire and EMS personnel will gain greater support in both operational and health-related aspects of their work.
NVFC grant supports online learning and responder training: Summary
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has announced a $30,000 grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation.
The funding will expand the NVFC Virtual Classroom online learning platform.
The grant will also support development of a new behavioural health training course.
NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch said the grant responds to high demand for training resources.
The Motorola Solutions Foundation has donated more than $100 million over the past 10 years.
Its giving priorities include responder training, technology and engineering education, and combined initiatives.
The Foundation said it aims to support under-resourced communities.
Executive director Wesley Barden Touhy said the Foundation is proud to support the NVFC.
The NVFC represents volunteer fire, EMS and rescue services across the United States.
It provides education, advocacy and programmes for responders.
The Motorola Solutions Foundation is the charitable arm of Motorola Solutions.
It partners with organisations worldwide through grants, volunteering and community initiatives.
The NVFC said the grant will enable more responders to access training online and in person.
Millions in grants transform how volunteer firefighters protect US communities
150 fire departments receive funding for equipment
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that 150 volunteer fire departments across 44 US states have each received a $10,000 grant from State Farm, totalling $1.5 million.
The NVFC explained that the grants are part of the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, announced on 18 August, which coincided with Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day.
According to the NVFC, volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the US fire service and respond to a wide range of emergencies including structure fires, wildland incidents, vehicle crashes, medical events, natural disasters and hazardous materials cases.
The organisation added that many small and rural departments face budget limitations, making it difficult to cover the rising costs of equipment and gear needed to support community response.
It stated that the grants will allow departments to purchase protective clothing, rescue tools, emergency medical equipment and communication devices.
Volunteer firefighters’ reliance on community support
The NVFC explained that volunteer fire departments are often the first line of defence for small communities, but lack of funding places constraints on their ability to serve.
It noted that grants such as these are essential to improve responder safety, operational efficiency and service to the public.
The council added that the programme aims to strengthen local capacity and reduce the risks volunteers face in daily operations.
It reported that the $1.5 million total donation will directly address shortfalls in equipment supply.
Statements from NVFC and State Farm
NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch said: “The NVFC is proud to team up with State Farm to continue the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program and provide critical assistance to volunteer fire departments.
“Firefighting and rescue equipment is expensive, and many departments struggle to find the funding they need.
“These grants from State Farm enable small departments to secure equipment they need to be better prepared to serve their communities and protect their responders.”
State Farm corporate responsibility assistant vice president Rasheed Merritt said: “We are proud to support volunteer firefighters – the ultimate good neighbors who risk their lives daily.
“At State Farm, we’re committed to helping people manage everyday risks and building safer, stronger communities.”
Community engagement activities planned
The NVFC noted that State Farm and the organisation will also participate in local community events this autumn alongside 10 of the recipient departments.
It added that these events could take the form of open houses, fire prevention activities, parades or other local gatherings designed to highlight community involvement.
The council explained that the events will provide a direct opportunity for residents to connect with local fire services.
It confirmed that the gatherings will help highlight the purpose of the grant funding.
Additional benefits for applicants
The NVFC reported that in addition to the 150 grants, State Farm has provided complimentary NVFC memberships to the first 2,000 eligible applicants.
It explained that these memberships give responders access to training, peer support and other member services.
The organisation added that the memberships aim to strengthen the skills and knowledge base of volunteer firefighters.
It noted that this initiative is intended to extend benefits beyond the direct grant recipients.
Growth of the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program
According to the NVFC, the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program was launched in 2024.
It stated that since the start of the initiative, $2.5 million has been awarded to 250 local departments across the US.
The council noted that the programme is intended to provide sustainable funding for equipment and training over time.
It explained that full details of the 2025 recipients are available on the NVFC website.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The NVFC programme illustrates how external partnerships can provide targeted financial support to volunteer fire departments facing resource challenges.
For professionals, this highlights the role of grant funding as a mechanism for improving access to protective equipment and operational tools.
It also shows how organisations can integrate funding with additional benefits, such as memberships and training opportunities, to extend support beyond the initial financial aid.
These approaches may provide models for other funding initiatives in the fire and safety sector.
State Farm and NVFC award $1.5 million in grants to US volunteer fire departments: Summary
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that 150 fire departments in 44 states each received $10,000 grants from State Farm.
The grants totalled $1.5 million.
The programme is called the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.
The announcement was made on 18 August, Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day.
Volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the US fire service.
The NVFC said that many small departments struggle with budgets and equipment costs.
The grants will fund personal protective equipment, medical and rescue tools, and communication devices.
State Farm and the NVFC will attend community engagement events this autumn with 10 recipient departments.
State Farm also provided complimentary NVFC memberships to the first 2,000 applicants.
The NVFC explained that memberships provide training and support services.
Since 2024, the programme has awarded $2.5 million to 250 departments.
Details of recipients are available on the NVFC website.
Volunteer firefighter support boosted by national partnerships
State Farm funds $1.5 million in equipment grants for US volunteer fire departments
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that 150 volunteer fire departments across the United States will each receive a $10,000 grant through the 2024 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.
The initiative is funded by State Farm and administered by the NVFC.
It marks the second year of the programme.
The NVFC said the funding will help local departments purchase equipment to support the safety and effectiveness of volunteer firefighters.
NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch said: “We are thrilled to work with State Farm to better equip our local volunteer fire departments.
“Volunteer firefighters are the lifeblood of our communities, yet many departments struggle to find the funding for the equipment and tools they need.
“Thanks to these grants from State Farm, we can help make sure our responders are better prepared for when the call comes in.”
Rasheed Merritt, corporate responsibility assistant vice president at State Farm, said: “At State Farm part of our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life.
“We are committed to helping build safer, stronger, better educated communities.
“We are proud to support the safety of volunteer firefighters – the ultimate good neighbours who risk their lives each and every day.”
Application period opens in June for eligible departments
According to the NVFC, the grant application window will open at 12:00am Eastern Time on 4 June and close at 11:59pm Eastern Time on 6 June.
The programme is open to departments that meet specific criteria, including being at least 50 percent volunteer-based, serving populations of 25,000 or fewer, having an annual revenue under $250,000, and being legally established in the US under state law.
The NVFC said funds can be used to purchase various items such as personal protective equipment, communication tools, rescue gear, and other technology.
The organisation added that the first 2,000 departments to apply will also receive a complimentary NVFC membership from State Farm.
The NVFC stated that application guidance, eligibility requirements, and an approved equipment list are available at www.nvfc.org/statefarm.
Grants aim to relieve budget constraints for rural responders
The NVFC said the grants are intended to help departments address budget limitations that restrict their ability to purchase essential gear.
It noted that many rural fire departments across the country rely on volunteers and operate with minimal funding.
The NVFC explained that the $10,000 grants can make a measurable difference for departments that otherwise struggle to update their equipment.
It stated that departments interested in applying should begin preparing their information in advance of the three-day window.
The NVFC advised departments to consult its resources online to ensure a complete and timely submission.
Anheuser-Busch delivers 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water
Anheuser-Busch has announced that it has produced its 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water for disaster relief efforts in the United States.
The company said the milestone reflects decades of support for affected communities.
It stated that its breweries have regularly paused beer production since 1988 to can and distribute water during emergencies.
The American Red Cross said the collaboration has supported relief efforts across the country.
Cliff Holtz, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross, said: “For over a century, Anheuser-Busch has been a vital partner in providing disaster relief support with the American Red Cross.
“This collaboration has been instrumental in our joint efforts to support communities during times of need across the country.
“As Anheuser-Busch reaches the remarkable milestone of producing 100 million cans of clean drinking water, we are proud to celebrate our enduring partnership and its lifechanging impact on millions of lives.”
Emergency water donations to reach over 600 volunteer fire departments
Anheuser-Busch said its 100 millionth can will be distributed in May as part of its annual summer preparedness campaign.
The company stated that, in partnership with the NVFC and its wholesalers, it will provide 1.5 million cans of water to more than 630 volunteer fire departments across 45 states.
The NVFC said the donations allow departments to reserve their limited funding for other needs.
Sarah Lee, chief executive officer of the NVFC, said: “Since our partnership began in 2019, Anheuser-Busch’s emergency drinking water donations have been vital to our mission of serving American communities in times of need.
“More than 10 percent of the 100 million cans have gone directly to departments across the country, helping ensure responders stay safe and hydrated on the front lines.
“These contributions also provide critical cost savings, allowing departments to redirect limited budgets toward other essential needs.”
Brewery investment supports long-term emergency response capacity
Anheuser-Busch said it is investing more than $6 million in its Fort Collins facility to improve production of both beer and emergency drinking water.
The company noted that its breweries in Fort Collins, Colorado and Cartersville, Georgia are currently designated to produce water year-round.
Cesar Vargas, chief external affairs officer at Anheuser-Busch, said: “This kind of lasting impact is only possible because of the dedication of our people, including our breweries and our network of partners and wholesalers.
“Reaching 100 million cans produced is just one more way we demonstrate our constant, unwavering commitment to showing up for our neighbours when it matters most.
“Our continued investments in our Fort Collins brewery strengthen our ability to respond quickly in times of need.
“It’s something we will continue to do for years to come – because that’s who we are.”
Volunteer firefighter support boosted by national partnerships: Summary
The National Volunteer Fire Council said 150 fire departments will each receive $10,000 through the 2024 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.
The initiative is funded by State Farm.
The application window runs from 4 to 6 June 2024.
Eligible departments must be majority-volunteer, serve populations of 25,000 or fewer, and meet other criteria.
State Farm is also providing 2,000 NVFC memberships for early applicants.
Grants can be used to purchase protective gear, tools, and other safety equipment.
Anheuser-Busch has announced its 100 millionth can of emergency drinking water for disaster response.
The water is produced during periodic pauses in beer manufacturing at designated US breweries.
The company is investing over $6 million in its Fort Collins facility to improve production capacity.
1.5 million cans will be delivered in May to 630 volunteer fire departments across 45 states.
The campaign is in partnership with the NVFC and American Red Cross.
The NVFC said donations reduce spending pressure on departments.
Over 10 percent of Anheuser-Busch’s 100 million cans have gone to fire departments.
The NVFC and Red Cross both noted the value of long-term corporate support.
MSA Cairns helmet giveaway for US volunteer firefighters open through 2025
MSA Cairns and NVFC launch 2025 fire helmet giveaway programme
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that MSA Safety is continuing its collaboration with the organisation by offering four MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmets to active volunteer firefighters in the United States during 2025.
NVFC members can now enter the first of four giveaway periods, which runs until 30 April.
Additional entry windows are planned for June, August and November.
To qualify, participants must be active volunteer firefighters in the United States and members of the NVFC.
Only one entry is permitted per member during each giveaway period.
Recipients will be randomly selected following each entry window.
Helmet design focused on cleanability, comfort and face protection
The MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet includes a range of features intended to meet operational needs of today’s fire service.
The helmet includes a low ride height, customisable fit and an expanded pivoting ratchet system designed to fit 95% of firefighters.
It can also be disassembled without tools, enabling easier cleaning and inspection.
It also includes a Defender Visor designed to deploy over various face sizes and eyewear.
It stows inside the helmet and can be operated while wearing gloves.
Additional protective features and standards compliance
According to the NVFC, the helmet includes MSA’s Shell Release System (SRS), which is designed to maintain head protection even if the helmet separates during an incident.
The helmet is compliant with NFPA 1971 standards for structural firefighting.
It is available in black, red, white and yellow variants.
The NVFC stated: “The MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmet showcases the iconic traditional design with innovative features that address today’s fire service needs.”
Eligibility criteria and application process
To apply, firefighters must be NVFC members and be serving in an active volunteer capacity in the US Only one entry is allowed per member per giveaway period, and previous winners are not eligible to re-enter.
The NVFC noted: “NVFC members will have four opportunities to enter to win an 1836 fire helmet throughout 2025.”
Participants selected as recipients agree to allow their name, photo and selected details to be used by the NVFC and MSA in promotional materials related to the giveaway.
MSA Cairns helmet giveaway for US volunteer firefighters open through 2025: Summary
MSA Safety and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) are offering four MSA Cairns 1836 Fire Helmets to active US volunteer firefighters in 2025.
NVFC members may enter the giveaway during four application periods in April, June, August and November.
Eligibility is limited to active volunteer firefighters who are NVFC members.
Only one entry is allowed per member per entry period.
The helmets include features such as a low ride height, Defender Visor, tool-free disassembly and MSA’s Shell Release System.
The helmet is approved to NFPA 1971 standards and comes in four colour options.
Participants will be randomly selected after each entry period.
Winners must consent to the use of their name, image and entry information for promotional purposes.
Full entry details and eligibility requirements are available on the NVFC website.
Be Ready This National Preparedness Month with Resources from the NVFC
On September 11, 2001, hundreds of first responders made the ultimate sacrifice while trying to save others. Twenty-three years after the tragic events of that day, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) remembers and honors their bravery and selflessness.
The NVFC is here to support you. September is National Preparedness Month, and the NVFC has the following resources to help you and your department be safe, healthy, and ready for the next emergency.
- PREPARE YOURSELF with health and wellness resources and support from the Share the Load Program, NVFC First Responder Helpline, and Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program.
- PREPARE YOUR DEPARTMENT with health and safety resources for personnel from the Serve Strong campaign and the Psychologically Healthy Fire Departments training and toolkit.
- PREPARE YOUR RESPONDERS with online courses and webinars in the NVFC Virtual Classroom and monthly live online training events.
- PREPARE YOUR COMMUNITY with Fire Corps volunteers to provide emergency preparedness and fire prevention education, conduct home safety checks and smoke alarm installations, and more.
- PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE with recruitment and retention resources and tools from the Make Me A Firefighter campaign and National Junior Firefighter Program.
- PREPARE FOR All HAZARDS with resources and training on wildfire mitigation, pipeline incidents, hazmat response, roadway response, and more.
NVFC membership also comes with a myriad of benefits, including the NVFC First Responder Helpline, AD&D policy, free training, access to the Volunteer Voices member community, and more
For more information, go to www.nvfc.org
Grant Writing Course: A Boost for Fire and Emergency Services
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has launched a grant writing course designed to bolster the capabilities of fire and emergency services departments.
This initiative seeks to equip personnel with the knowledge to craft compelling grant proposals, thereby securing much-needed funds for their departments.
NVFC’s educational push
In a bid to strengthen community fire and emergency services, the NVFC has made a concerted effort to provide free educational resources.
The “Grant Writing for the Fire and Emergency Services” course is a testament to this commitment.
Aimed at fire department and EMS personnel, the course offers in-depth training on developing successful grant narratives and understanding the various funding opportunities available, including those from government and private sources.
The course, supported by MSA Safety, is available at no cost in the NVFC Virtual Classroom until December 7.
Expanding access to critical funding
The availability of this course for free is a strategic move by the NVFC, bolstered by the support of industry partners such as Josh Cellars and MSA Safety.
With a clear recognition of the financial constraints often faced by volunteer fire and EMS departments, this course serves as a vital tool to unlock potential funding sources, enabling them to better serve their communities.
The NVFC has previously benefited from a $125,000 grant from General Motors, which has been instrumental in enhancing roadway safety for responders and road users across the nation.
Ongoing support for volunteer services
The NVFC’s role extends beyond education; as a non-profit association, it represents the interests of volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services.
This course is part of a larger effort to provide comprehensive support to its members, ensuring they have the resources necessary to perform their critical roles effectively.
IFSJ Comment
The NVFC’s introduction of a free grant writing course is a significant development for fire and emergency services.
By addressing the financial challenges faced by these crucial services, the NVFC demonstrates a proactive approach to community safety.
Grants are often a lifeline for volunteer departments, and the ability to secure such funding is vital for maintaining and improving emergency response capabilities.
The course’s impact could be far-reaching, enabling departments to access tools, technology, and training that may otherwise be unaffordable.
It’s a strategic investment in capacity building that underscores the importance of well-funded emergency services for public safety.
About the NVFC
The National Volunteer Fire Council is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services.
The NVFC advocates for these services, provides resources and training, and ensures they receive recognition and support for their indispensable role in community protection.
NVFC announces a call for presentation proposals for the 2024 Training Summit
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has revealed its plans to organise the annual NVFC Training Summit.
This summit is scheduled for June 21-22, 2024, in Buffalo, NY.
Those interested can find more details and submit their proposals here.
NVFC Training Summit 2024: A platform for learning and networking
As one of the notable events in the fire and emergency services sector, the NVFC Training Summit serves as a hub for idea-sharing, networking, and training on critical industry topics.
For the 2024 edition, the summit will offer breakout sessions across three main tracks: Health, Safety, and Training; Recruitment and Retention; and Leadership.
These 90-minute sessions will address various subjects including effective training, physical health, diversity, equity, inclusion, recruitment strategies, and resource management among others.
How to participate and contribute
The NVFC emphasises the importance of diverse experiences and perspectives from first responders across the country.
To aid potential presenters, the NVFC’s training and education team, namely Rachel Buczynski and Maggie Mojab, will be available for two virtual Q&A drop-in sessions in September.
All applications need to be submitted by October 1, 2023, after which a peer review team will assess the proposals based on several criteria including relevance, quality, and presenter experience.
Notifications to selected presenters will be sent out by November 3, 2023.
Successful applicants can expect travel expenses to be covered by the NVFC.
Furthermore, selected presenters will be offered a stipend. However, it’s worth noting that while teaching teams can apply, only one instructor per course will receive the travel stipend.
It’s also important for potential presenters to remember that all sessions should remain educational in focus, even if they represent a particular organisation or company.
For more information about the summit or the application process, interested parties can reach out to Rachel Buczynski, chief of training and education, directly.
IFSJ Comment
The NVFC Training Summit consistently provides invaluable insights and training opportunities for fire and emergency service professionals.
By opening up a call for presentations, NVFC ensures a diverse range of topics and voices at the forefront of the summit.
This approach not only enhances the quality of the event but also ensures that attendees benefit from the broadest possible spectrum of knowledge and experience in the field.
New documentary highlights the lives of America’s volunteer firefighters
‘Odd hours, no pay, cool hat’
Coming this summer to theatres and digital platforms is a new documentary called “Odd hours, no pay, cool hat.”
This film, produced by Sub-Genre Media, a Vignette Production and Hold Fast Features project, is slated for a North American theatrical release on July 7, 2023.
Viewers in New York, Los Angeles, Washington, Texas, Oregon, Tennessee, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, and Wisconsin, among others, will be the first to enjoy the screening.
Additionally, a digital release on TVOD platforms is scheduled for July 27, 2023.
A unique insight into the lives of volunteer firefighters
The film offers a peek behind the scenes of the volunteer fire service in America. Inspired by an original story by Peter Yoakum, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of the nearly 700,000 volunteer firefighters around the country.
In association with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), Hold Fast Features, and Vignette, the film pays tribute to the bravery, compassion, and community spirit of these selfless individuals. John Deere is also a key presenter of the project.
Why ‘Odd hours, no pay, cool hat’ matters
For an immersive 90 minutes, audiences will be given exclusive access to the inspiring journey of the volunteer firefighters.
They will witness the challenges, triumphs, and the singular mission of these individuals: to serve their community.
The head of distribution at Sub-Genre, Jordana Meade, expressed her excitement about the project: “We’re thrilled to release ‘Odd hours,’ a documentary that shines a light on the diversity of communities across the country helping their neighbours in the most unexpected and extraordinary ways.”
Co-director Cameron Zohoori added: “The film is entertaining, hopeful, and optimistic. It suggests that when it comes to the most desperate and important moments of our lives, we will drop everything and come together to help our neighbours.”
To watch the film’s trailer below, and find a showing at the official website at www.oddhoursfilm.com.
About Sub-Genre Media
Sub-Genre is a distributor of specialised films for niche audiences, a producer of original productions, and a strategic consultancy agency. They guide brands through the process of leveraging entertainment for marketing and CSR initiatives.
IFSJ Comment
This film will shine a spotlight on the dedication and selfless service of volunteer firefighters. The impact of this documentary will be far-reaching, serving as a vital tool to foster community support and recruit new members to the cause. The heroes who serve without expecting anything in return deserve our attention and recognition.
NVFC gives stance and recommendations on the complexity of federal grant applications
An overview of the National Volunteer Fire Council’s concerns on federal grant applications
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), representing volunteer fire, emergency medical services and rescue services across the nation, has voiced concerns about the mounting complexity and length of federal grant applications, including those for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs.
This was announced in a recent position statement issued by the NVFC Board of Directors, aiming to highlight the challenges encountered in achieving federal grant application compliance.
Pinpointing the obstacles in federal grant applications
In particular, the statement identifies three challenges that are especially taxing for volunteer fire departments.
These include the intricacies of applying for AFG and SAFER grants, the SAM.gov system, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Civil Rights Evaluation Tool (CRET).
Recommendations and requests from NVFC to alleviate the complexities of federal grant applications
The NVFC’s position statement outlines several recommendations and requests, aimed at easing these challenges. These include:
- “Recommends that the General Services Administration (GSA) reorganize SAM.gov to make it more user friendly and urges GSA to come up with a more streamlined process of resolving conflicts that may arise within the system.”
- “Recommends that DHS provide more assistance, including more accessible sample language and templates to facilitate compliance with certain grant criteria like CRET.”
- “Requests that the federal government recognize the unique circumstances volunteer fire departments face and provide timely assistance and resolutions to issues encountered while a department works to comply with grant criteria.”
- “Requests that DHS work with the NVFC and other stakeholders on potential ways to simplify and shorten the AFG and SAFER applications.”
Tracking the implementation of NVFC’s requests
NVFC has committed to follow-up with the relevant federal agencies on the implementation of these suggestions, underscoring the need to prevent volunteer fire departments from being discouraged by the complex grant application process.
About the National Volunteer Fire Council
The NVFC is the national organisation representing the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services across the United States. Comprising 65% of the nation’s fire and emergency medical services, volunteer fire departments play an invaluable role in protecting communities, especially in smaller areas where resources are stretched.
IFSJ Comment
This is an important development for all parties involved in federal grant applications, particularly for volunteer fire departments who are already operating under strained resources.
Simplifying the application process could significantly increase their access to much-needed funds, thus improving community safety nationwide.