Welcome to VAVRS

The VAVRS is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with an extensive history of assisting and advocating for EMS agencies in Virginia since 1935. Today we represent over 346 agencies with approximately 22,000 members. We are dedicated to meeting the ever-changing demands of emergency medical responders from all backgrounds and experiences. We provide high quality training and a collaborative environment for all emergency medical responders.

Click on image to download flyer/info on this FREE training opportunity

 

September 18, 2025 - Saluda

 

 

 

VAVRS Important Dates 2025-2026 
(click to download)

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 *USFA Releases New Manual on Retention and Recruitment
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/blog/retention-and-recruitment-manual/
*Administration Releases New Manual on Retention and Recruitment Posted: June 15, 2023

 

 

The VAVRS cultivates connections and partnerships between Virginia's emergency medical responders. The VAVRS has several different types of membership including Agency Membership, Supporting Organization Membership and Individual Membership.

 

Join VAVRS Now

2025 VAVRS Convention

2026 Rescue College

2026 Spring BOG

2026 Camporee

Help Ukraine w/Equipment

German Exchange Program

 

 

 

Click Here for More Information About VOLSAP

 

 

 

 

 

VAVRS Pledge to our Membership

The Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads is THE voice of EMS. We advocate for Virginia’s EMS agencies and providers.

We link members and agencies for the purpose of sharing ideas, giving you a voice at the General Assembly, state advisory boards and on state and local committees.

When our members have training needs, they come to the VAVRS. 

When our members need assistance from leadership to budgets they come to the VAVRS. 

We help rescue squads throughout the Commonwealth thrive and succeed so they can provide prompt, effective patient care 24/7 in the communities they serve.

Mission Statement

"The VAVRS shall promote and assist member rescue squads in improving pre-hospital care in Virginia."

Pre-hospital care shall mean providing rescue functions and rendering of emergency care for patients outside the hospital.

The VAVRS shall help its members improve pre-hospital care by:

• Providing training to it members.
• Improving communications and liaisons between agencies.
• Promoting legislation beneficial to pre-hospital providers.
• Providing management and assistance services.
• Promoting and recognizing pre-hospital providers.

Upcoming Events

To view a list of the upcoming scheduled training courses - go to Training > Registration

 

Strategic Plan:

To see the Strategic Plan for VAVRS please click on the plan below:

 

2024-2026 VAVRS Strategic Plan
 

 

 

Proud Sponsor of

 

Events:

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2026 Spring BOG Meeting
TBD

2026 Rescue College
June 12-21, 2026
The Inn at Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA

2026 VAVRS Camporee
July 31, August 1 & 2, 2026
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort
Natural Bridge, VA

2025 VAVRS Convention
October 2-5, 2025
Hotel Madison
Harrisonburg, VA