Top 5 Recruitment Strategies for Volunteer Fire and EMS Departments to Implement Before Year-End

As we approach the end of the year, many volunteer fire and EMS departments are looking for effective ways to boost recruitment. Whether it’s filling operational gaps or expanding your team, the last few months of the year offer an ideal window to connect with potential recruits. The right strategies can help your department close out the year strong and set the stage for a successful new year. Here are five key recruitment strategies that your department can implement before year-end to attract the volunteers you need.

Leverage Seasonal Community Events

Fall is a season filled with community gatherings, from local fairs and Halloween festivals to parades and holiday markets. These events are perfect opportunities to engage with community members and spark their interest in volunteering.

People are already in the mindset of engaging with their community, making it easier to approach them about joining your department. Setting up a booth or table at local events is a simple way to increase visibility. Have recruitment materials on hand and be prepared to answer questions about what it takes to serve.

Pro Tip: Encourage current volunteers to participate in these events and share their personal experiences. Real stories resonate and help potential recruits see themselves in the role.

Use Social Media to Tell Your Story

Social media is one of the most powerful tools for recruitment. It’s cost-effective and allows your department to reach a broad audience with engaging content. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can help you highlight the work your department does and the need for volunteers.

Social media provides a direct way to communicate with your community and younger generations who may be interested in volunteering. Share stories from current members, behind-the-scenes videos, and clear calls to action for recruitment.

According to the Pew Research Center, 71% of Americans use social media to connect with their communities. By sharing content that showcases the rewarding and exciting aspects of being a volunteer, you can engage those who may not have considered it before.

Pro Tip: Create short, engaging videos that give a glimpse into the life of a volunteer firefighter or EMT. Authentic content showing day-to-day experiences can inspire viewers to take action.

Collaborate with Local Schools and Colleges

Partnering with local schools, colleges, and vocational programs is a great way to attract students and young adults who are looking for hands-on experience or opportunities to give back to their community.

Many schools have programs in fire science, paramedic training, or health sciences, which naturally align with the skills needed in fire and EMS departments. Offering internships, credit hours for volunteering, or service-learning opportunities can attract students who want to gain practical experience.

Pro Tip: Contact local guidance counselors or career centers and offer to do presentations about the volunteer opportunities at your department. Students are more likely to get involved if they can see how it aligns with their educational or career goals.

Run a Targeted Recruitment Campaign

A focused marketing campaign can amplify your recruitment efforts during the last few months of the year. This could include a combination of digital outreach (social media ads, email marketing, Google ads) and physical marketing tools like flyers or banners at local businesses.

Targeted marketing allows you to reach people who are most likely to volunteer, whether that’s local residents, young professionals, or people already interested in public service. Running geo-targeted ads on social media ensures your message reaches the right audience within your community.

Pro Tip: Use a clear and direct message in your ads, emphasizing the need for volunteers and the specific ways they can make a difference. Include a link to an easy-to-complete online interest form to simplify the recruitment process.

Show Appreciation for Current Volunteers

Retention is just as important as recruitment. The volunteers already serving in your department can be your biggest advocates for bringing in new members. By showing appreciation and recognizing their efforts, you build a strong internal culture that encourages current volunteers to invite friends, family, or colleagues to join.

People want to feel valued for their contributions, and volunteers who feel appreciated are more likely to stay and bring in others. A simple thank-you, a public recognition on social media, or a volunteer appreciation event can go a long way in boosting morale and retention.

Pro Tip: Consider hosting a volunteer appreciation night before the end of the year, where you can celebrate the accomplishments of your team. Use this event as an opportunity to encourage members to share their experiences with others who might be interested in volunteering.

While the end of the year may feel like a busy time, it’s also an excellent opportunity to boost recruitment efforts and strengthen your department. By leveraging community events, using social media effectively, collaborating with schools, running targeted campaigns, and showing appreciation for current volunteers, you can build momentum and attract the new recruits your department needs. These strategies are simple to implement but can have a lasting impact on your recruitment and retention efforts.

Are you ready to take your recruitment efforts to the next level? Let’s work together to develop a plan that fits your department’s unique needs and helps you finish the year strong.

By Walter Campbell, Recruitment & Retention Strategist

Want to boost your social media reach and improve recruitment and retention? First Arriving can help! Fill out our Online Inquiry Form or email?[email protected]?today.

For more insights on recruitment and retention in fire, EMS, and law enforcement, subscribe to our blog and stay updated with the latest strategies and best practices.