Summary
While volunteer firefighter numbers are tanking across the country, Blacksburg is bucking the trend. The town is keeping its ranks full by recruiting local college students to step up and serve.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 1
Impact analysis
Keeping a steady stream of student volunteers saves the town a ton of money that would otherwise go toward hiring more full-time, paid staff.
Local residents get reliable, fast emergency response times, and college students gain valuable real-world experience and training.
No groups negatively affected
Mentions & discussions (2)
Firefighter pay-per-call, personal tax reductions being used in region to entice volunteers
Volunteers in Botetourt County receive a stipend based on the number of calls they answer and their level of training. This has encouraged volunteers to stay active and pursue additional certifications, according to the fire department. Courtesy of Z...
Volunteer firefighter numbers have declined across the U.S. In Blacksburg, college students help fill the ranks.
Blacksburg volunteer firefighter Jacob Stone lifts a fire hose as part of the 2026 Combat Challenge course. Photo by Erick Solorzano. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/cardinalnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DSC05933-scaled.jpg?fit=780%2C439&...
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