EMS Exchange Program
VAFR EMS Exchange Program – Kassel, Germany
A one-of-a-kind opportunity for Virginia EMTs and paramedics to build international friendships,
experience another EMS system firsthand, and represent the Virginia Association of First Responders abroad.
2026
German EMS delegation visits Virginia
2027
VAFR members travel to Kassel, Germany
Legacy
Nearly three decades of exchange history
Mission
Represent Virginia while learning abroad
About the Program
More than a trip — a long-standing professional and cultural exchange
The VAFR EMS Exchange Program is one of the organization’s most unique and meaningful opportunities.
Established in 1995, the program connects Virginia first responders with our partners in Kassel, Germany,
creating a lasting tradition of education, collaboration, and friendship.
What makes it special
Participants do not simply visit another country — they experience a different emergency medical services model,
tour public safety agencies, learn how care is delivered abroad, and build relationships that often last a lifetime.
- Ride along with German EMS crews
- Tour hospitals, fire stations, and rescue agencies
- Explore public safety operations in Kassel and surrounding areas
- Experience the culture, history, and traditions of Germany
Our International Partner
VAFR partners with the German Red Cross in Kassel, Germany. Kassel is located in the state of Hessen,
about two hours north of Frankfurt. EMS in the region includes a coordinated rescue service model involving
the German Red Cross, Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund, and Feuerwehr Kassel.
Exchange Cycle
A true back-and-forth partnership
The exchange is not a one-time visit. It operates on an alternating-year model so both Virginia and Germany
have the opportunity to host, teach, and learn from one another.
1995
Program established
The VAFR EMS Exchange Program begins, launching a unique international partnership centered on EMS education, public safety collaboration, and cultural exchange.
2024
German delegation visits Virginia
Participants from Germany visited communities across Virginia including Virginia Beach, Richmond, Blacksburg, Bristol, Culpeper, and Fredericksburg.
2026
Germany returns to Virginia
The next visiting group from Germany is expected to travel to Virginia as part of the continuing alternating-year exchange cycle.
2027
VAFR group travels to Kassel
The next group of VAFR participants is expected to travel to Germany for the next outbound exchange experience.
Photo Gallery
What Participants Experience
An unforgettable professional opportunity
Exchange participants typically spend about 17 days immersed in the host country’s EMS and public safety environment.
Time is spent observing field operations, meeting agency leaders, touring facilities, and experiencing the culture that
shapes the local emergency response system.
Whether hosting our German colleagues in Virginia or sending a Virginia delegation to Kassel, the program helps participants
see their own work through a broader lens and return home with new ideas, fresh perspective, and meaningful international connections.
“The VAFR EMS Exchange Program offers something most providers will never have the opportunity to experience — the chance to represent Virginia abroad while learning firsthand how EMS works in another part of the world.”
VAFR EMS Exchange Program
Looking Ahead
Interested in the 2027 trip to Germany?
Future application details, eligibility requirements, and deadlines will be announced by VAFR when the next selection cycle opens.
This is a great section for an application button, downloadable brochure, or contact information once the program opens.