Strengthening Community Engagement and Volunteerism

Key Initiatives to Strengthen Community Partnership

Community Support Roles:
Launch a structured program to allow residents to assist with non-emergency roles—like logistics, public education, and community outreach—freeing up frontline resources while building community trust.

Junior Firefighter Engagement:
Develop a youth-focused initiative to introduce high school students to fire and EMS service. This cultivates early interest and lays the groundwork for the next generation of first responders.

CERT Program Expansion:
Work with Pierce County Emergency Management to expand Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. These trained volunteers can provide critical support during disasters and large-scale events.

Public Education Enhancement:
Grow K–12 safety and fire prevention programs so every classroom, parent, and child in our district has access to lifesaving information and community engagement opportunities.

Embracing a Hybrid Model: Building the Future of Emergency Services

As Central Pierce Fire & Rescue becomes one of the largest fire agencies in Washington, we must meet rising service demands without sacrificing quality or burning out our professionals. One step forward is a carefully implemented hybrid model that integrates volunteer EMTs and firefighters alongside our career staff.

Done right, this:

• Builds a pipeline for future hiring

• Offers flexible support during peak demand

• Strengthens community ties and resilience

• Protects career roles while expanding capacity

This model isn’t about replacing our professionals—it’s about reinforcing them. It’s about building a smarter system that serves the community, empowers future responders, and honors the service of those already on the front lines.