Volunteer Opportunity Awaits With Reserve Program

As April marks National Volunteer Month, it's a fitting time to recognize the invaluable contributions of volunteers whose dedication and selflessness make a profound difference in communities nationwide. 

Every agency seems to have that one person associated with being a beacon of community service. For the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department, that person is Mike Evinger. For nearly twenty years, Evinger has been a dedicated volunteer and mentor to the department, a role he never imagined would become such a significant part of his life. 

When he's not rushing to aid in emergencies as the Reserve Captain for the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department, Evinger can often be found caring for yards throughout the community. As the Reserve Captain, Evinger is responsible for coordinating and leading the reserve team, ensuring their readiness for emergency response. It's hard to imagine that these two worlds could merge as one, but for Evinger, being a volunteer for the department is rooted in personal experience. 

"My grandfather had a lawn care business, and I used to work with him. One day, I decided not to go out with him, and that happened to be the day he passed away in somebody's backyard, alone," Evinger recalls. "After that, I felt a calling to help people. That's what drove me to get into it, and it's been a driving force ever since. There's nothing quite like the feeling of saving a life." 

From there, Evinger became an EMT, serving as a medical responder with his employer of 37 years, General Electric, while also working as an EMT at Mid America Dragway. He responded to routine calls with the fire department, assisting in various capacities, which caught the attention of former Fire Chief Randy Leach. Leach's encouragement led to the inception of the Arkansas City Reserve Program, initially conceived as a hiring pool for the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department. 

"Randy had heard about Winfield's Reserve Program and approached me, asking if I would like to participate. Initially, I was hesitant about getting involved in firefighting, but I agreed to try it," Evinger said. 

Since its inception, the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Reserve Program has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. With a team of competent and well-trained volunteers, the program plays a crucial 

role in enhancing firefighter safety and bolstering response capabilities during emergencies, significantly impacting the community. 

Only two individuals are currently volunteering in the department's reserve program, but Evinger is hopeful that more community members will step forward, driven by a passion for serving others. 

"In the reserve program, we assist in crises. Our department operates as a cohesive team, working alongside full-time firefighters to support them directly," Evinger explains. 

Specific eligibility criteria must be met for those interested in joining the Reserve Program, including being a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and possessing a high school diploma or GED. Evinger emphasizes the importance of willingness to learn and eagerness to contribute to the team. 

"All participants in the Reserve Program are expected to attend monthly meetings and training sessions and contribute a minimum of 12 hours per month to station staffing," Evinger adds. "Reserves also actively participate in various community events and activities." 

Reserves must also obtain Firefighter I certification within their first year in the Reserve Program. 

"EMT Certification is not mandatory for reserves, but it is encouraged. However, those aspiring to become full-time members of ACFD will need this certification. Firefighter I and Hazmat Awareness are mandatory for reserves, while those planning to become full-fledged ACFD members will require Firefighter I & II and Hazmat Operations certifications. Once you have gained experience and completed the necessary certifications, you can apply for full-time positions within the department." Evinger explained. 

Applications for the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department reserve program can be completed online at www.arkcity.org.