Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance
Volunteer with Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance
Why do we volunteer on the ambulance?
Most of us who serve on the Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance (NLCA) feel that we get back at least as much as we give — not only useful skills, but a true sense of purpose, a deep connection to our town and neighbors, and the pride that comes from helping people in some of their hardest moments.
"As Cicero said, 'Non nobis solum nati sumus,' not for ourselves alone are we born. Being accomplished in life is to have a full heart, to give and not expect, to make a difference in another's life. It can be challenging, but it always rewards, one way or another."
— Norfolk Volunteer
Why Volunteer with Us?
- Gain valuable medical skills
- Build a strong community network
- Make a meaningful impact
What We Provide
- Comprehensive training programs
- Flexible scheduling options
- Ongoing support and mentorship
Basic Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Valid Connecticut driver's license
- Clean driving record
- Pass background check
- Physical ability to perform duties
- Commitment to ongoing training
Training Process:
- Complete EMT basic course (160 hours) - or EMR course (60 hours)
- Pass state certification exam
- Complete field training with experienced EMTs
- Attend monthly continuing education
- Maintain CPR certification
- Complete bi-annual recertification
- Attend monthly meetings
Initial Training
160 hours of EMT training or 60 hours of EMR training over 3-4 months
Regular Shifts
Flexible scheduling - choose shifts that work for you
Continuing Education
Monthly training sessions and bi-annual recertification
Submit Application
Download, complete, and submit the volunteer application form.
Interview & Background Check
Meet with our volunteer coordinators and complete background screening.
Begin Training
Start your EMT training course with our certified instructors.
Field Training
Complete supervised field training with experienced team members.
Start Volunteering
Begin serving your community as a certified EMT volunteer!
Myth No. 1: I'm not good in emergencies.
Fact: Most of us had no previous medical background. Training gives you the necessary skills, as well as a tried-and-true, systematic approach to dealing with emergencies. These will give you the confidence to get out there and start helping people. You'll also never be asked to do more than you're comfortable with or can handle.
Myth No. 2: I don't have enough time.
Fact: We are flexible with our scheduling. Some of us put ourselves on the duty schedule, and others "listen in" to the radio and respond when available. Some do nights, some only do daytimes. What we need are active, committed members who are willing to help cover our calls, whether in blocks of time or on a more ad hoc basis. And all of us have other commitments - we are teachers, business owners, artists, lawyers, town employees, contractors, parents, grandparents, and more. We all do what we can, when we can.
Myth No. 3: The training is long.
Fact: Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training is 60 hours: two nights per week for two months. The result? Incredibly useful skills you can use in any emergency situation anywhere. If you choose (and most of us do choose) to further your education and skills, you can get additional training to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
Myth No. 4: Volunteers must stay at headquarters when on call.
Fact: We take calls from where we are - home, work, headquarters or elsewhere. We each have radios and pagers, as well as a phone app, that alert us and allow us to respond from anywhere.
Myth No. 5: I might be all alone on an ambulance call.
Fact: We always work in teams when responding to emergencies. You'll be supported by other more experienced members - in fact, as an EMR, you are required to have at least one EMT (who has more training) join you on any ambulance response. During your training, you'll also be given a mentor from the squad to help teach and coach you.
Myth No. 6: I can't drive that huge ambulance.
Fact: Driver training is separate and optional (although encouraged). You won't drive until you successfully complete the training. Some of our crew only drive the ambulance and do not participate in the medical care. We always need drivers too!
Myth No. 7: I could never have someone's life in my hands.
Fact: We love "Grey's Anatomy" and "House M.D." but TV medical dramas make field emergency care seem much more complicated than it is. Our main job is simple: stabilize our patients, make them as comfortable as we can, and get them safely to the hospital. We aren't solving medical mysteries or performing tracheotomies with ballpoint pens.
Myth No. 8: Now you've made it sound boring.
Fact: On the contrary! Our town may be small, but we handle it all - falls, illnesses, motor vehicle accidents and extrications, trail rescues, cardiac emergencies and strokes, hazmat incidents, even childbirth. If it can happen, it has probably happened here. This work is often exciting, but even when a call is low acuity or routine, you will learn something. Regardless, you will be providing priceless comfort and reassurance to your patients and their loved ones.
Myth No. 9: Someone else will do it.
Fact: Simply put: if we want our volunteer ambulance service to remain operational and free to all, we need more volunteers. Some of our members have been on the squad for decades and will be retiring. And life happens - members move away, or their circumstances change. Having more members join us is mission critical.
*Reprinted with permission from Barrie Prinz
For questions on volunteering, requirements, training or the application process, please Contact Us.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help provide essential emergency medical services to your community.