Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I – Corning) has announced that the deadline for tuition reimbursement for volunteer members of fire departments has been extended until February 15. In most areas of New York, particularly in our upstate, rural communities, it is citizen volunteers who respond to emergency situations. Due to a variety of factors, New York’s volunteer fire departments are currently experiencing a critical need to recruit and retain members.

“Our volunteer emergency personnel are the backbone of our rural communities,” said Palmesano. “For those that have volunteered time protecting their communities, this is a great opportunity to further your education. It’s also a great incentive for those who may have thought about joining their local volunteer department. I’d like to encourage all who may be eligible to apply as soon as possible, and those thinking about volunteering to look into this program.”

The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has developed the Higher Education Learning Plan (FASNY HELP) as an incentive for people to serve in New York’s volunteer fire service. This program will provide tuition reimbursement to student volunteers allowing them to attain up to eighty (80) credit hours from their closest New York state chartered community college, or one located within 50 miles of their primary residence.

Under the FASNY HELP tuition reimbursement program, student volunteers will be eligible to have up to 100% of their tuition reimbursed in exchange for maintaining defined grades, and fulfilling defined service requirements as a member in good standing in one of New York’s volunteer fire companies. There is no restriction on the type of academic course(s) the FASNY HELP student volunteer can pursue.

For more information, contact John D'Alessandro, FASNY Deputy Volunteer Programs Coordinator at 518-694-3136 or visit FASNY HELP on the web.