Volunteers make up more than two-thirds of the nation's fire service and protect their communities from a wide range of emergencies. Yet many fire departments are having difficulty meeting the staffing needs that an all-hazards department requires. Call volumes have skyrocketed in recent years, tripling over the last three decades. At the same time, many fire service veterans are reaching retirement age, while there are fewer new recruits coming into the ranks. Department leaders are looking to recruit the next generation to fill the gap and step up to serve their community in a unique and rewarding way. A survey conducted by the National Volunteer Tire Council (NVFC). the national nonprofit association representing the volunteer fire and emergency services, found that 44 percent of people between the ages of 18 and 34 have an interest in volunteering as an emergency responder. With more than 80 million people, this demographic will play a crucial role in the success of the volunteer fire service. 'Millennials make great firefighters and emergency volunteers. They work hard, learn fast, are technologically savvy, and are used to balancing multiple responsibilities, says Quinn. It is this generation that is really where the future of the fire service lies. They are our leaders of tomorrow. The younger generation is also finding that there are many benefits to being a fire service volunteer. For one. it provides a meaningful way to give back to the community. Volunteers also learn skills that they can use in many aspects of their personal and professional lives.