VAFR Monthly Newsletter
Training, Events & Member Updates
Stronger Together. Always Ready.
This month’s VAFR newsletter includes important updates on Symposium registration, Camporee reservations, Convention planning, competitions, scholarships, officer nominations, and the statewide launch of VAFR’s VILT program.
CLICK HERE TO READ NEWS FROM THE VAFR MAY 1 2026
Symposium Update
Registration for the Virginia First Responder Symposium closes May 15. VAFR has now exceeded 400 registered attendees, which means free registration has closed.
- Members: $100.00
- Non-members: $200.00, which includes an individual VAFR membership
- Registration closes: May 15
Several courses are filling quickly, while others still need additional registrations. Please review the course catalog and register now if you plan to attend.
Camporee at Natural Bridge Jellystone
The VAFR Camporee at Jellystone Camp Resort Natural Bridge is starting to fill. As of today, there are only 4 river sites remaining, along with a couple of cabins and yurts. Additional non-river sites are still available.
Jellystone offers a family-friendly campground experience with fishing, river floating, water parks, mini golf, and more.
Dates: July 31 – August 1
Book by: June 16 for discounted rates
Group name: VAVRS / Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads
Please call Jellystone Natural Bridge directly to book. Questions may be directed to Chris Craft.
Convention Update
The VAFR Convention brochure and training course schedule will be available soon. Several training tracks will be offered, including:
- ALS
- BLS
- Fire
- Law Enforcement
Learn more here:
https://www.vafr.org/vafr-convention/
Convention Competitions Challenge
Millboro Area Rescue Squad is throwing down the gauntlet. They have won every EMT competition in their district this year and are waiting to see who is coming for them at Convention.
Competitions will include ALS, BLS, EVOC, Truck Rodeo, and the Firefighter Challenge. Start preparing your teams now.
Winter Symposium Teaser
Be on the lookout on May 16 for an exciting Winter Symposium announcement.
Scholarship Deadline
VAFR scholarship applications are due June 1.
Interested in Serving as a VAFR Officer?
Officer nominations are due June 1. Submit nominations to
[email protected] or to the State Office.
VILT Statewide Launch
VAFR’s Virtual Instructor-Led Training program officially goes live for all EMS providers across the Commonwealth on May 6.
The first statewide topic will be Human Trafficking, taught by the FBI.
Get Involved
From Symposium to Camporee to Convention, VAFR has a busy and exciting year ahead. Register early, invite others, and help us continue building a stronger first responder community across Virginia.