2025 VCOS Gold Ribbon Report: Utilizing Data in Emergency Response: NERIS

Gold Ribbon Resource

Guidance on Developing a Successful Fire Chaplain Service in Your Fire Department

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Yellow Ribbon Report Update on behavioral wellness now available!

Report provides resources, action items toward a proactive approach to mental wellness in our industry.

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The Latest

Vector Solutions Introduces Target Solutions Volunteer Edition to Expand Training Access for Volunteer Fire Departments

February 3, 2026
New streamlined, affordable training platform helps volunteer agencies meet standards, reduce risk and improve readiness

IAFC Reminds All Road Users: “SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU – SLOW DOWN AND MOVE OVER!” this Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW), and Every Week

November 17, 2025
November 17-21, 2025 - Crash Responder Safety Week

9/11 Reflections: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

September 11, 2025
Quotes and reflections, shared by first responders, preserve the personal truths of that day, ensuring we never forget the sacrifices made and the lessons learned.

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Education

Mentoring

Helping Members Find Their Spark Through Mentoring - Angola, IN

March 7, 2026 | 101 S. Union Avenue Ashley, IN
Learn how to create and maintain effective mentoring programs that engage members, support their growth, and improve retention. This full-day course includes hands-on activities, discussions, and practical tools to implement mentoring within your department.
Team Building

Building Collaborative Teams - Angola, IN

March 8, 2026 | 101 S. Union Avenue Ashley, IN
An interactive workshop designed to strengthen communication, improve teamwork, and enhance department culture through hands-on activities and practical tools.
Recruitment Campaign

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator Certification - Montgomery County, MD

April 15, 2026 | 8751 Snouffer School Rd, Montgomery Village, MD
A certification course covering recruitment planning, member onboarding, retention strategies, and community outreach to help departments build sustainable membership pipelines.

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About VCOS

To develop and enhance effective, professional leaders of the volunteer and combination fire service by providing tools, resources and representation to lead their organizations effectively. Learn more

Featured Resources

IAFC logo1280x720

IAFC's Recommendations for FEMA Reform

White paper about reforming FEMA
National Volunteer Firefighter Geospatial Recruitment and Retention Toolkit

National Volunteer Firefighter Geospatial Recruitment and Retention Toolkit

Strengthen Volunteer Fire Departments Through Strategic Recruitment and Retention
US FireAdministration

A Prepared and Resilient Fire and Emergency Medical Services - Strategic Plan Fiscal Years 2024-2027

Strategic Plan to address the fire related challenges facing our nation

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KnowledgeNet

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