As part of National Volunteer Week, April 15th-21st, fire departments across Monroe County will hold open houses as they participate in RecruitNY [3], an initiative of the Firemen’s Association of New York State (FASNY [4]). This weekend, April 21st-22nd, departments will hold recruitment-based open houses for those considering becoming a volunteer firefighter.
Growing up in a family which served with volunteer fire and ambulance companies, I understand how vital recruitment is to the volunteer fire service. That is why I was the original author of legislation that created a scholarship program to increase the recruitment and retention of volunteers.
I was also proud to sponsor legislation to increase the benefits received by totally disabled volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers in New York State. Volunteer firefighters who are injured in the course of their volunteer service are eligible under state law to receive workers’ compensation for their injuries. The state has enacted these benefits in recognition that these volunteers provide enormously important services to our communities.
The open houses this weekend are designed to offer potential volunteers with a glimpse of the individual fire departments and provide those interested in becoming volunteers a chance to ask questions. Click here [5] to view a complete list of participating Monroe County departments.
For generations, our community has had a long and proud tradition of volunteer firefighters – courageous men and women who save lives and deliver care, comfort and support when tragedy strikes. This weekend provides a great opportunity to become a part of this proud tradition.
Sincerely,
Senator Jim Alesi
