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Get Involved
Rural Arkansas volunteer fire departments need more than good intentions — they need people willing to act. Here's how you can make a real difference.
Ways to Help
Six Ways to Support Rural Fire Departments
01
Volunteer as a Firefighter
Rural departments are critically short-staffed. If you're physically able and willing to serve, contact a department near you or search the USFA registry to find one.
Find a Department02
Support Roles & Administrative Help
Not every role requires fighting fires. Departments need grant writers, bookkeepers, social media managers, and administrative volunteers. Reach out to offer your skills.
Contact Us03
Contact Your Elected Officials
A five-minute phone call or email to your state representative or U.S. congressman can move the needle on funding legislation. Use our talking points to make your voice heard.
Contact Officials04
Share the Message
Share ARFC's mission on social media, forward our updates to neighbors, or submit your department's story. Public awareness drives political will.
Share Your Story05
Support through Contributions
Donations to ARFC fund advocacy, grant assistance, and outreach. Every dollar helps us fight for the departments that protect rural Arkansas.
Contribute to ARFC Efforts06
Attend Community Events
Show up to fundraisers, town halls, and training events hosted by local departments. Your presence signals community support and helps departments raise critical funds.
See Upcoming EventsAdvocacy
Contact Your Elected Officials
Legislators respond to constituent pressure. A brief, respectful message explaining the funding gap facing rural volunteer fire departments — in your own words — is one of the most effective things you can do.
Key Talking Points
Rural volunteer fire departments protect over 60% of Arkansas's land area with little to no state funding.
Many departments operate on budgets under $30,000 per year — not enough to maintain equipment or replace aging gear.
Turnout gear, breathing apparatus, and reliable trucks are life-safety equipment — not optional upgrades.
Volunteer recruitment is in crisis. Without support, departments face closure — leaving communities unprotected.
State matching funds and dedicated rural fire appropriations would leverage federal grant dollars already available.
Events
Upcoming Events
Events Coming Soon
Check back soon for upcoming events, or submit your own event to the calendar.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or just learn more — we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to Kenneth Ray and the ARFC team directly.