Giving Back, Yet Receiving: The Benefits of Being an OWL VFD Volunteer
As a volunteer, you typically think about the services you are providing and how you’re helping others. Here at OWL VFD, it’s clear that our volunteers certainly give back, but what they receive in return is equally as impactful.
Education
From day one, you’ll start learning the ropes of what it means to be an OWL VFD volunteer.
“I started at 16. OWL VFD gave me everything I have today — a career, connections, knowledge, education, training, paid for my schooling, mentors,” said Fire Lieutenant Julia Jordano.
As a volunteer, you’ll receive countless hours of training to help you serve our community. But this training can also take you big places outside of the fire department.
“I am a career fireman. I am also a paramedic and have my nursing degree,” said Jordano.
And she credits these successes to her time at OWL VFD.
Community and Comradery
If it’s community and comradery you’re seeking, you’re definitely headed in the right direction with OWL VFD.
“The comraderies and traditions run deep in my department; it reminds me a lot of the military, which was part of the appeal,” said Rescue Captain Stephanie Powers. “It is also a family — there is a bond there, that even when we disagree, we always have each other’s backs and care about the mission at hand.”
“You will meet your best friends here, and your networking will be insane. (I know everyone everywhere!),” said Jordano.
(She may have also mentioned a fair share of “firehouse shenanigans” that add to the fun and bonds.)
New Experiences
What other volunteer opportunity will offer you the variety of experiences that rescue volunteering does? OWL volunteers respond to fires, vehicle accidents, medical emergencies and more. With almost 300 members, we are one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in the United States! If you’re interested in the medical field or simply in making an impactful difference in our community, OWL is a great place to experience the world of rescue volunteering.
Training Others
And as you continue down your path, you’ll also learn what it means to pass that knowledge and training down to the next in line. Numerous volunteers note what an amazing experience it is to be able to share your knowledge with those rising through the ranks.
“The absolute most rewarding experiences have been receiving thank you’s from members I spent time training,” said Jordano. “A lot of time was put into making me great, still have several mentors who are feather birds. They continuously mold me to be better, to be a leader. Words can’t describe when you get a message from a past member thanking you for helping them and teaching them, taking the time.”
“I can share the knowledge, experience and hard lessons I’ve learned to help the next generations coming up,” said Powers.
The Title
Here at OWL VFD, we’re pretty proud of the services we provide and our excellent reputation in the community.
“Another reward to being an OWL member specifically is the title. Some of the most amazing firemen, medics and leaders have been bred at OWL,” said Jordano. “We carry a reputation of being the best, and it’s an honor to volunteer here.”
Ready to join us in this honor? Contact us today to learn more.
Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWL VFD) is one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in the United States, with almost 300 members. OWL VFD provides fire suppression, EMS care and rescue services to 80,000 residents in our 27 square mile area through the operation of three fire stations. OWL volunteer Firefighters and EMT’s work the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift, five days a week, plus 24/7 holidays and weekends. For more information on OWL VFD, become a fan on our Facebook page.