Since Julian Stanley Wise Founded the nation's first volunteer rescue squad - the Roanoke Lifesaving and First Aid Crew - in 1928, Virginia's volunteers have been on the front lines to save lives and reduce suffering.

Every  volunteer EMS agency is made up of dedicated members who provide professional pre-hospital care.  Whether they are delivering a baby or safely removing someone from the twisted metal of an auto crash, volunteers are equipped with the necessary training and expertise.

EMS volunteers are professionals.  From the 110-hour Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) class all the way up to the Paramedic level, volunteers receive the same EMS training as their career or paid colleagues.  EMT training is usually offered by rescue squads or fire departments.  EMS classes may also be offered through regional EMS councils, hospitals, high schools, and community colleges.

EMS volunteers are a team.  Men and women from all walks of life give their time and talents to help their community in a truly life-saving mission.  They do more than immobilize fractures or administer oxygen.  They maintain the buildings and grounds, balance the books, organize the fundraisers, make sure the ambulances are running smoothly and more than you probably ever imagined.  So, if you don't have time for training or enjoy working "behind the scenes," you can still volunteer.

There are opportunities to volunteer - Especially in the rural and suburban areas of Virginia.  Volunteers also serve in places you would not expect.  Virginia Beach is home to the nation's largest all-volunteer system with 11 rescue squads and some 750 members.

Be a daytime superhero!  With most adults working during the day, it is a challenge to attract and keep qualified daytime volunteers.  If you work nights, have a flexible schedule, or just need a break from your kids and daytime television, you can be a superhero.

This year, consider giving more than just money to your volunteer rescue squad or fire department  Give yourself.  Give your time and talents.  They could help save a life.

 

Read the article, "Your Rescue, Their Emergency" by B. Lynn DiBiase  - April 30, 2001

Read the article, "Amherst Volunteers Fearful of Shortage" by Joshua Slocum  - March 8, 2002

 

To learn more, please fill out this quick form...

 

First Name   
Last Name   

Address   
City   
State   
Zip   

Day Phone Number   
Night Phone Number   

Email Address   

Check your area of interest in Volunteer Emergency Medical Services

Patient Care / EMS
Extrication / Rescue   
Volunteer Support 
Administrative Duties

 

How did you become interested in volunteering?

The results of this form will be forwarded to the Office of Emergency Medical Services in Richmond, Virginia to the Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, 
Deidra Snipes.

Or if you prefer, you can write to:

Office of Emergency Medical Services
ATTN: Recruitment and Retention Coordinator
1538 East Parham Road
Richmond, Virginia, 23286-3842

(804) 371-3500
(800) 523-6019 (In VA Only)
(804) 371-3543 FAX

Website:    www.vdh.state.va.us/oems

 

           

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