Virginia Fire Chiefs Foundation: Advancing Leadership, Education & Support in Public Safety

The Virginia Fire Chiefs Foundation (VFCF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2007, is committed to strengthening Virginia’s fire and emergency services through education, leadership development, and compassionate support for first responder families.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, sponsors, and community partners, the Foundation proudly sustains three cornerstone programs that directly impact fire and EMS professionals across the Commonwealth:

🎓 1. Robert E. White Memorial Scholarship Program

Since its inception, this program has awarded 420 scholarships totaling nearly $400,000 to Virginia fire and EMS professionals and their family members. These funds have supported continuing education, certifications, and degree programs that elevate public safety and service excellence across the state.

🏅 2. Leadership Development: Officer & Chief Academies

The VFCF funds two flagship leadership programs:

• Virginia Fire Officer Academy (VFOA)

• Virginia Chief Officer Academy (VCOA)

More than 1,500 fire and EMS professionals have graduated from these highly respected programs, often completing both. These alumni go on to lead departments, implement critical training protocols, and drive innovation in emergency services across Virginia.

🛡️ 3. Line of Duty Death (LODD) Benefit Program

Launched in 2024, this vital program offers direct financial assistance to the families of fallen fire and EMS personnel.

• $5,000 is provided to the immediate family of any provider who dies in the line of duty.

• $2,500 is provided to families of those who pass away due to occupational cancer, a growing risk in the fire service.

To date, two families have received the $5,000 line-of-duty benefit, and five families have received the $2,500 cancer-related benefit—offering critical support in moments of unimaginable loss.

🤝 Together, We Serve Virginia

Your support fuels the future of emergency services in Virginia. Through personal donations, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events like our annual golf tournaments, the VFCF continues to empower leadership, support professional development, and stand beside first responder families in their time of need.

When you give to the Virginia Fire Chiefs Foundation, you’re investing in:

• Stronger leadership in your community

• Educational advancement for Virginia’s bravest

• Dignified support for families of the fallen

Help us continue these essential programs—and ensure that those who serve are never left behind

For more information about the VFCF, please contact Chris Eudailey at ceudailey@vfca.us.