Lake Anna Connections

we are requested, regardless of the size of the crowd,” Fialo said. “We like to be out and about with the citizens, and the visibility is good for recruitment.” There are other roles volunteers can fill without having to run calls, Fialo said, such as serving as administrative members or helping with the fundraising and public education events. Junior programs for 14 to 18-year-olds are another good outreach to get the younger generation interested in volunteering and keep them when they become 18 and can be released to run calls. Fialo explained that Holly Grove Rescue has the most active Junior program currently, but he is working to re- energize the Louisa Juniors. “It’s a good way to get them in, let them see what goes on in a volunteer organization, and begin to introduce them to some of the training they will need,” he added. “It’s also a great way to begin building rapport with the kids and letting them find mentors who will be there when they turn 18. We also have some students who are taking the classes at the high school who need an organization to join and learn more.” Fialo sees many benefits to the combination system in Louisa County where volunteers and career staff work side by side, as well as the cooperation with the other volunteer departments. “Having career fire and EMS personnel on duty 24/7 is comforting to the volunteers WWW.LAKEANNACONNECTIONS.COM 22