Virginia Association of First Responders Announces Statewide Rebrand
January 21, 2026
Oilville, Va. — The Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, founded in 1935, has officially rebranded as the Virginia Association of First Responders (VAFR) to reflect a more inclusive mission supporting emergency medical technicians, firefighters and law enforcement officers across the Commonwealth.
VAFR Announcement Press Release…
This rebrand represents the continued growth and collaboration among agencies that serve in first responder roles throughout Virginia. The VAFR connects responders, agencies and communities to strengthen public safety, advocate for first responder needs at the General Assembly and support agencies through statewide partnerships and training opportunities.
Currently, more than 350 fire, law enforcement and EMS agencies hold memberships in the VAFR, representing more than 22,000 individuals involved in first responder professions across Virginia.
“The new name highlights our shared commitment to training, advocacy and community,” said Edward “Bubby” Bish Jr., Executive Director of VAFR. “With recent changes in state regulations regarding training, we saw a great need to join forces in a more coordinated way.”
The VAFR provides more than 25 statewide training programs each year for member agencies, supporting readiness and strengthening first responders across Virginia communities.
One of the organization’s signature programs is the upcoming Virginia First Responder Symposium, a multi-day training event bringing together professionals from across public safety disciplines.
The 2026 Symposium will be held June 12–21 in Blacksburg, Virginia, offering specialized training across multiple disciplines including EMS, technical rescue, pediatric care, mental health resiliency and leadership development.
“This transition honors our past while ensuring our legacy will continue for another 90 years and beyond,” Bish said.
For more information about the Virginia Association of First Responders, visit www.vafr.org.
Media Contacts
Sara Hunt
Public Relations Coordinator
[email protected]
804-994-1120
Edward “Bubby” Bish Jr.
Executive Director
[email protected]
804-731-1131