membership options

There are many ways to be part of the Gaylordsville Volunteer Fire Department. Whether you are interested in emergency response, supporting department operations, getting involved as a young member, or contributing behind the scenes, GVFD offers several paths to membership. Each role plays an important part in keeping our department strong, prepared, and connected to the community.

Any adult member who is not a certified firefighter is considered a Support Member. Support Members play an important role in the success of the Department and may assist with areas such as marketing, event planning, fundraising, community outreach, administrative support, and other department needs.

Support Members are eligible to vote and may be elected to serve as EMS Lieutenant, President, Secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, or on the Board of Directors.

Auxiliary Members provide non-emergency support to the Department through the Auxiliary's own organizational structure.

Auxiliary Members manage their own committees, with financial accountability maintained through the GVFD Treasurer. Auxiliary 

Members do not pay department dues and have voting rights regarding proposed new GVFD members as outlined in Article I, Section 2 of the Department bylaws.

Junior Membership is open to youth ages 14 through 17. Applications must be signed by a parent or legal guardian, and Junior Members are expected to follow all guidelines outlined in the Junior Member Handbook.

Junior Members may serve on department committees but may not serve as committee chairs.

Upon turning 18, a Junior Member who wishes to continue with the department as a Support Member or Firefighter must complete a regular membership application. The application fee is waived. Junior Membership expires 60 days after the member's 18th birthday.

At the discretion of the Assistant Chief and Captain, time served as a Junior Member may be credited toward the probationary period required for adult membership.

Members who successfully complete the State of Connecticut Firefighter I course and receive a favorable recommendation from the Assistant Chief are eligible to hold the rank of Firefighter.

Members who were active prior to March 5, 1990 are also classified as Firefighters. Firefighters are eligible to vote and may be elected to any department officer position.

Honorary Membership may be awarded to an individual in the community who is recognized by the Department for exceptional contributions or service.