VPFF

 

 

POLICY

 

 

BOOK

 

 

 

January 2007

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2002

 

Statement

VPFF Purpose Statement

VPFF Mission Statement

 

CHAPTERS

ADMINISTRATION

       Section - General:

Budget Adjustments

Compensation for Activities

Emergency Defense Fund

Financial Assistance for Seminars, Symposiums, etc.

Food Allowances

Meeting Attendance

Meeting Times

Mileage Reimbursement

Motions During Business Meetings

Parliamentarian

Phone Calls

Use of VPFF Logo and/or Name

VPFF Equipment Loan Contract

       Section - Local Commitments:

Biennial Goal Submittals

Data Collection (Occupational, Health, Safety)

Per Capita Form

     Example of Form

Political Activity

 

 

Section - Organizing:

Charter Fees

AWARDS

       Section:

Raymond S. Via Memorial Award

       Past Recipients     

Example of Letter for application form

Application Form

VPFF Scholarship Award

Application Form

COMMITTEES

       Section:

Committees and Chairpersons

Committee Descriptions

Human Relations Committee

Public Relations Committee

COMMUNICATIONS

       Section:

Computer Network

ELECTIONS

       Section:

Letter from Vincent J. Bollon, General 

Secretary/Treasurer

A Message to Local Union Election Officials

Conducting Local Union Officer Elections

Checklist for Conducting Local Union

Officers Elections

DIRECTORY

BY-LAWS

 

 

STATEMENT

 

 

 

The content of this book is to serve as an informational directory to the membership of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters (VPFF).  It is in no way intended to replace the by-laws of the VPFF or the IAFF.  Any conflicts that arise should be brought to the attention of the President or his designee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PURPOSE STATEMENT

 

 

 

The purpose of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters is to continually strive for an enhanced quality of life for its membership, their families and the continued safety of the citizens that they serve.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MISSION STATEMENT

 

 

 

To effectively organize and represent the interests of the members of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters.

 

·       Through responsive membership services.                          

·       Through organized legislative activities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

SEPTEMBER 1999

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  To provide direction to the Secretary/Treasurer to adjust the budget to meet changes or unforeseen demands on fiscal expenditures.

 

BACKGROUND:  Currently there is no provision or flexibility within the organization to provide for economic changes that occur during the implementation of the biennial budget cycle.  Viewpoints and focus of the Board of Directors can change during this period; timing may require changes to take place prior to convention in order to meet the needs of the organization.

 

METHOD:  At the direction of the Board of directors, the Secretary/Treasurer will provide a list of recommendations for budgetary maneuvers.  This list will be presented to the Executive Board for further recommendation and implementation.  These recommendations would be implemented to a level to sufficiently satisfy the request of the Board of Directors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

COMPENSATION FOR ACTIVITES

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  To provide a stipend for individuals acting on behalf of the President of the VPFF. 

 

Any individual designated by the President of the VPFF as acting on his behalf.  If this assignment requires an overnight stay or encompasses the majority of the day, greater than five (5) hours, a stipend of $35.00 will be paid to this individual.

 

The President to the Secretary/Treasurer will authorize stipend payment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

EMERGENCY DEFENSE FUND

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  Provide proper accountability of special funds and that its intended use is met.

 

All Locals desiring to utilize Emergency Defense Funds must submit a financial statement with their written request for utilizing the fund.

 

Upon approval, the Local must sign an interest free loan agreement.  The Secretary/Treasurer will negotiate repayment terms.

 

Criteria for utilization of this fund are addressed in the IAFF Constitution and By-laws, Section 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

MAY 1997 

                                                                                           

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR SEMINARS, SYMPOSIUMS, ETC.

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  To provide financial assistance to local’s to help educate its members by participating in events that they would otherwise not be able to attend.

 

All Local’s desiring to utilize these funds, must submit a financial statement with their written request for utilizing the funds on the form provided by the VPFF, 60 days prior to the event.

 

The cap on the amount of funds a local may receive is determined by the cost to send one individual to said event.

 

When more than one local has requested funds to the same of different events, the committee should take into consideration if this is the first time a local has been given assistance.

 

Granting the request of assistance shall be given or denied by the disbursement committee.  Any additional monies requested will need approval by the VPFF Board.

 

Any decision made by the disbursement committee may be appealed to the VPFF Board.

 

VPFF LOCAL ASSISTANCE FORM

 

LOCAL ________________________________             DATE ____________

 

LOCAL PER CAPITA DUES $______________

 

STARTING FIRE FIGHTERS SALARY $________________

 

SEMINAR OR MEETING WANTING TO ATTEND  ___________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

HOW MUCH ASSISTANCE NEEDED $________________

 

          TRAVEL               $__________________

          FOOD                 $__________________

          REGISTRATION  $__________________

          ROOM                $__________________

          OTHER                 $__________________

 

          TOTAL                 $__________________

 

HAS LOCAL RECEIVED ASSISTANCE BEFORE?    YES ____ NO ____

 

IF SO, HOW MUCH? $__________________________

 

NEEDED ITEMS:

 

COPY OF YEARLY REPORT

COPY OF LAST MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENT

COPY OF AUDIT REPORT TO THE IAFF

 

SUBMIT TO VPFF SECRETARY/TREASURER:

 

          Michael W. Hanks, Secretary/Treasurer

          Virginia Professional Fire Fighters

          455 Hidden Country Lane

          Hardy, VA  24101

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

FOOD ALLOWANCES         

 

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  All officers or designated members of the VPFF who participate in or attend related union functions such as, IAFF Conferences, Seminars, Symposiums, Conventions, State and Federation meetings, are entitled to a $40.00 per day food allowance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

MEETING ATTENDANCE    

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  To allow for proper facilities and logistical needs to be met for the Directors of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters.

 

All directors and officers of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters are to notify the Secretary/Treasurer of their attendance at scheduled events.

 

Each local will notify one (1) week prior to a scheduled event whether or not they will be attending and the number of individuals attending from that local.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

MEETING TIMES           

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  Define the meeting times for the Board of Directors.

 

Board of Directors meetings begin promptly at 1:00 pm and are scheduled to be completed by 5:00 pm the same day.

 

However, in the event that the business of the day is not concluded by 5:00 pm, an hour dinner break will be held.  After, the break, the meeting will reconvene and continue until completion of the business of the Board of Directors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

January 2007

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

MAY 1998 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  All Officers or designated members of the VPFF who participate in or attend related union functions such as, IAFF Conferences, Seminars, Symposiums, State and Federation meetings are entitled to submit for mileage reimbursement equal to the prevailing rate identified by the IAFF.

 

The total mileage is calculated to and from the aforementioned activities and any business mileage incurred during the activities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

MOTIONS DURING BUSINESS MEETINGS     

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  To provide accountability of the business of the VPFF.

 

Any member making a motion from the floor, during business meetings of the VPFF, must provide the Secretary/Treasurer with the motion in writing at the time the motion is made.  The motion should include all amendments that are made to the motion.

 

The Secretary/Treasurer will maintain the motions on file until after the next business meeting of the Board of Directors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VPFF BOARD MEETING MOTION

 

NAME ________________________________ DATE _______________

 

MOTION:  ____________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________

 

SECOND ______________________ VOTE:  _____ YES _____ NO _____ ABSTAINED

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1999 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

PARLIAMENTARIAN

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  To provide guidelines for the utilization of a parliamentarian during VPFF business functions.

 

The President will determine the need for appointing a parliamentarian.  This individual will utilize the “Atwood’s’ Rules of Order”.  This manual is available through the IAFF and should be present at each VPFF business function and remain in the custody of the Secretary/Treasurer.

 

The President may appoint any member in good standing that has a thorough working knowledge of the rules of order.

 

During convention, parliamentarian appointments will be confined to that of an attorney recommended by the President and selected by the VPFF Executive Board.  Convention business includes changes in by-laws and should be over seen by parliamentarians that have the expertise to ensure legality of the business being conducted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

MAY 1998 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

USE OF VPFF LOGO AND NAME

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

GENERAL

 

 

PURPOSE:  Coordinate the use of the VPFF logo and/or name is authorized only for VPFF affiliates and firms producing products on behalf of the VPFF with prior approval of the VPFF.

 

All requests to use the logo and/or name must be in written form and directed to the VPFF President who will submit the request to the VPFF Executive Board for consideration and approval.

 

All requests must include a description of the product or products that would bear the VPFF logo and/or name, the price of the product(s), the use of the proceeds from the sale of the product(s) and the market for the product(s).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

DATA COLLECTION – OCCUPATIONAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

LOCAL COMMITMENTS

 

PURPOSE:  To develop a data base of Occupational, Health and Safety related information.

 

This data will be utilized to provide evidence and proof to substantiate increased benefit packages for the membership.

 

Convention resolution states President is to form standing committee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                           

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

PER CAPITA FORM                      

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

LOCAL COMMITMENTS

 

PURPOSE:  To ensure sound financial stability of the VPFF.  To ensure accurate membership roles.

 

To facilitate Article V of the VPFF Constitution.

 

The VPFF per capita forms are to be filled out completely each month.

 

To include signature name and address of local secretary/treasurer.

 

These forms are due to VPFF Secretary/Treasurer on or before the 15th of each month.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

MAY 1998 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

POLITICAL ACTIVITY                 

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

LOCAL COMMITMENTS

 

PURPOSE:  To provide timely reports to the VPFF of local political activity which is vital to the success of the organization.

 

The political activity of each local is to be reported to the Legislative Chairman at each Board meeting.  The director submits this report, before being reimbursed by the VPFF Secretary/Treasurer.

 

Reportable activities include, but are not limited to:  candidate contributions, phone banks, leaflets, signs, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

CHARTER FEES                           

CHAPTER:

ADMINISTRATION

SECTION:

ORGANIZING      

 

PURPOSE:  To assist in the recruitment of potential member organizations.

 

All organizations eligible for membership to the VPFF, the charter membership fee of $100.00 to the IAFF will be paid by the VPFF.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

RAYMOND S. VIA MEMORIAL AWARD         

CHAPTER:

ADWARDS

SECTION:

BIENNIAL        

 

PURPOSE:  To recognize the member who best exemplifies Raymond S. Via’s qualities. This award is given to the member who is involved in Local, State and IAFF activities and is involved in other community related activities that support the ideals of the VPFF.

 

COMMITTEE MAKEUP:  This  committee is comprised of three appointees of the President of the VPFF.  These three people should be from different locals of the VPFF.

 

DESCRIPTION OF EVENTS:  The Committee solicits all Locals to submit nominations for this award.  The Committee chooses a recipient from those nominated.  The Committee assists the local in making arrangements for the award presentation.  The award is then presented at the biennial convention banquet.  The award recipient is to be kept confidential until presentation if possible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1983          Duane Dixon                 Roanoke Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 1132

 

1984          Jim Thornton                Norfolk Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 68

 

1985          Buddy Rothweiler         Henrico Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 1568

 

1986          Jack Carper                  Newport News Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 794

 

1987          Mike Winstead    Norfolk Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 68

 

1988          Doug Conway               Henrico Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 1568

 

1989          Frank Kearney, III        Hampton Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 2450

 

1990          Douglas Bracey  Richmond Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 995

 

1992          Earl Joyner                             York County Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 2498

 

1994          Eric Lamar                    Fairfax County Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 2068

 

1996          W. T. “Buck” Swartz     Arlington Professional

                             Fire Fighters, Local 2800  (posthumously)

 

1998          James “Cricket” Mikell Norfolk Professional                         Fire Fighters, Local 68

 

2000          Harold Schaitberger     Fairfax County Professional      

                           Fire Fighters, Local 2068

 

 

2002    Patrick Morrison  Fairfax County Professional

                     Fire Fighters, Local 2068

 

2004 J.R. Lilienthal Suffolk Professional Fire Fighters

                                   Local 2801

 

2006     Hahn Dennison  Metro Washington Airport Authority

                    Fire Fighters Local 3217

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXAMPLE OF LETTER

 

Date

                                                                                                                                                                         (Local Committee Person)

(Address)

(Address)

 

Dear (Local Committee Person):

 

Enclosed is a nomination form for the (calendar year) Ray Via Award.  The Ray Via Award has been a tribute and memorial to the memory of this man since 1983.

 

Each year the awards committee asks each local to evaluate their members and choose a member they feel is deserving of this great honor.  The basic criteria for a nominee should not be based solely on his or her heroic actions, but on the qualities and values that were important to Ray Via.  A nominee should be active not only in his local but also in the community and take interest in political matters.  The committee will also consider other activities that promote a positive image.

 

If you would like to nominate one of the members of your local, please fill out the enclosed nomination form and return it to:

 

                                                VPFF Committee Person

                                                Address

                                                Address

 

Nominations will be accepted until 15 March of each year.  All forms should be completely filled out and your local seal affixed.  Incomplete nominations will not be considered and in the event the committee cannot agree on a winner, the committee will present the nominations to the President of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters association for a decision.  Please also keep in mind this award is to be a surprise to the recipient if at all possible.  If you have, any questions feel free to contact

me at (committee person’s phone number).

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

(Committee Person)

VPFF Committee Chairman

 

 

 

Nomination for (0000) Raymond S. Via Memorial Award

 

Name of nominee:

Rank:

Name of Department:

Number of years in the department:

IAFF Local Number:

Number of Years in Local:

Past/present offices held:

 

 

Past/present committees within Local:

 

 

In submitting the following information about the nominee, please be as specific as possible and avoid generalities in regards to his/her accomplishments.

 

1.      Community involvement:

 

 

2.      Civic organizations:

 

 

3.      Local union public relations:

 

 

4.      Political involvement:

A.      Local level:

 

B.      State Level:

 

C.      National Level:

 

**Additional information relating to the merits of the nominee may be attached to this form.

 

Submitting Local Number:

 

Name and title:                                                        Name and title:

 

Signature:                                                                 Signature:

Date:                                                                          Date:

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 2001 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SUBJECT:

 

VPFF SCHOLARSHIP FUND       

CHAPTER:

ADWARDS

SECTION:

        

 

PURPOSE:  To provide financial assistance for spouses a legal dependents of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters.

 

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION INFORMATION:

 

A.     The VPFF scholarship will be awarded annually.

B.       Scholarship awards will be made in May of each year at the state convention in even years and the Board meeting in odd years.  The scholarship award year will be defined as 1 March to 28 February.

C.     Scholarship recipients will be notified in writing from the Secretary/Treasurer of the VPFF.

 

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS:

 

A.       All applications and supporting materials must be mailed to the VPFF and postmarked no later than 1 March prior to the scholarship award year.  All applications and supporting materials will become the property of the VPFF.

B.        Scholarship applications and supporting materials received in the VPFF office postmarked after 1 March

       for any year shall be returned to the applicant.

C.  Applications and supporting materials shall include:

1.       A completed VPFF Scholarship Application form.

2.       An official copy of the school transcript and grade report from the school currently attending or the most recently attended.  The official school transcript should list all grade points earned and academic course work completed to date.

3.       A brief statement (about 200 words) prepared by the applicant, which indicates their reason for wanting to continue their education.

4.       Two (2) letters of recommendation:

a.      Letters of recommendation should be from a teacher, school administrator, counselor, work supervisor or military supervisor (active, reserve or National Guard) who can address the qualifications and academic aptitude of the scholarship applicant.

b.      The required letters of recommendation may not be from immediate family members, close family friends, blood relatives or relationships by marriage.

5.       All applicants (both new and renewal applicants) submitting a scholarship application and supporting materials are required to satisfy all application process requirements.

 

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION CLASSIFICATION:

 

A.       Eligible institutions of higher learning shall include any post-secondary institution requiring a high school diploma or graduate equivalent degree (GED) for entry into the institution including:

1.       Any public or private four-year accredited college or university.

2.       Any public or private two-year accredited college.  

3.       Any public or private accredited vocational-technical college or training institution.

 

 

 

SCHOLARSHIP AWARD DISBURSEMENT:

 

 

A.       Scholarship award money shall be disbursed by the President and Secretary-Treasurer of the VPFF at the May convention or May board meeting.

B.         The award money shall be drawn upon for:

1.       Fees or charges required for tuition.

2.       Fees or charges for room and board while attending school.

3.       Expenses for textbooks, course work, lab fees and other materials as required by a course instructor (e.g. goggles, art/drawing supplies, glass slides, etc.) for required course assignment or projects.

C.       Scholarship awards are not transferable to another individual or institution and are forfeited by the recipient upon withdrawal from the institution where the scholarship award was disbursed by the VPFF or upon failure to meet the institutions appropriate standards of academic achievement, conduct or character.

D.        In the case of board certified medical physician’s diagnosis of a chronic or acute illness or traumatic injury which intervenes in the ability or eligibility of a scholarship recipient to enter or continue academic studies at the university, college or institute of higher learning, the payment of scholarship monies may be suspended for a period of twelve (12) months.

E.         In the event a scholarship recipient’s educational endeavors are interrupted during the period of scholarship award year as a result of being called to active duty under Title 10 of the United States Code or National Guard Duty in State status, the scholarship award money shall be held by the Secretary-Treasurer of the VPFF for a period of not more than twenty-four (24) months, unless the time for active duty is extended by the military authority.

F.          Any scholarship award recipient’s leaving the US Armed Services or National Guard duty must reapply for reinstatement of the scholarship monies or the remaining portion of scholarship monies within ninety (90) days after severance from duty.

 

SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION CRITERIA:

 

A.       Scholarship recipients will be selected based on previous academic performance (high school grades for new college reentrant and cumulative college grade point averages and academic performance of college applicant).  A minimum satisfactory academic performance of a C grade (2.0 on 4.0 scale) is required for all scholarship recipients.

B.         The applicant’s statement indicating their reasons for wanting to continue their education will be considered to help identify the applicants needs as well as the applicant’s educational and career goals.

C.       The accompanying letters of recommendation will be considered to help determine the applicant’s aptitude promise and prior academic achievement.

D.        A total of four (4) scholarships will be awarded per year for the maximum amount of $500 each.  The student may only be awarded one scholarship per year.  In the case that all four scholarships are not given out in one year, the remaining monies may roll over to the next year.  This would allow for more than four awards in the proceeding year if there were more than four applicants.

 

POLICY ADMINISTRATION:

 

A.      The three (3) Trustees will receive the applications from the   

      Secretary-Treasurer.  They will decide who will receive the   

      scholarship money.

        B.  Funding for the Scholarship fund will be from:

1.       The interest earned from the 3 Merrill Lynch savings accounts.

2.       The EDF fund will contribute $.025

3.       VPFF Fundraising money will be used up to 30% of what we may receive.

4.       Sunset clause – When the Trustees determine that the Scholarship Fund is solvent; at that time the $.025 will revert back to the EDF fund and will no longer be used to support the Scholarship Fund.

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VPFF SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION FORM

 

NAME:    ______________________________________________________

 

SSAN:  ________________________           DOB: ________________________

 

ADDRESS:    ___________________________________________________

 

CITY:  _________________________ STATE:  ____ ZIP:  _________

 

HOME PHONE:  ____________________ WORK:   __________________

 

NAME OF VPFF MEMBER:  ______________________________________

 

LOCAL NUMBER:  _________RELATIONSHIP TO MEMBER:  __________

 

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

 

HIGH SCHOOL:  _________________________________ YEARS: ____

 

VOCATIONAL SCHOOL:  _________________________ YEARS:  ____

 

COLLEGE:  _______________________________________ YEARS:   ____

 

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

NAME: _______________________________________________________

ADDRESS:  ____________________________________________________

CITY:  _____________________________ STATE:  ____ ZIP:  _________

HOME PHONE:  ___________________ WORK:  _________________

 

NAME:  _______________________________________________________

ADDRESS:  ____________________________________________________

CITY:  ____________________________ STATE:  ____ ZIP:  _________

HOME PHONE:  __________________   WORK: ___________________

 

PLEASE SEND SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION BY 1 MARCH TO:

Michael W. Hanks   

455 Hidden Country Lane

Hardy, VA  24101

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

January 2007

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                           

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER

SUBJECT:

 

COMMITTEES AND CHAIRPERSONS

CHAPTER:

COMMITTEES

SECTION:

        

 

COMMITTEES AND CHAIRPERSONS

 

 

 

HUMAN RELATIONS:

 

                   Tyrone Wisher                                 Portsmouth Local 539

 

LEGISLATIVE:

 

                   Art Lipscomb                                  Lynchburg Local 1146

EMS:

                   Jeff Crawford                                 Prince William Local 2598

 

FEDERAL FIREFIGHTER:

                   Michael O’Neill                              Ft. Belvoir Local F-273

 

POLICY PROCEDURES:

                   Jeff Crawford                                 Prince William Local 2598

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITTEE DESCRIPTIONS

 

 

 

HUMAN RELATIONS:

 

Committee formed to promote better understanding between brothers and sisters and to improve relationships between all members regardless of race, gender or cultural differences. 

 

LEGISLATIVE:

 

This committee directs the VPFF efforts to address state and federal legislation which impacts members work conditions and quality of life.  Two sub-committees have been created under this committee.  State EMS legislation and Federal fire fighters issues. 

 

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY:

 

Committee formed to identify health and safety issues and recommend action to address issues.  Creation of database to provide information to the VPFF/locals is the responsibility of this committee. 

 

POLICY PROCEDURES:

 

Committee responsible for facilitating written policies to assist with operation of VPFF.  Maintains policy procedure book. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

JANUARY 1997 

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER 

SUBJECT:

 

HUMAN RELATIONS COMMITTEE   

CHAPTER:

COMMITTEES

SECTION:

HUMAN RELATIONS

 

PURPOSE:  The human relations committee is designed to provide the members of the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters with information on dealing with and preventing discrimination and harassment in the fire service. 

 

Guidelines and recommendations are available for assisting affiliates in the development of local policies and procedures that aid in the resolution and elimination of discriminatory and harassment practices.

 

The human relations committee is composed of elected union members.  Its primary duty is to improve relationships and promote understanding between all members.

 

The human relations committee is assigned the task of recommending policy and procedures pertaining to discrimination, it also addresses problems concerning minority affairs, age discrimination and sexual harassment:

1. Providing technical assistance to the VPFF on matters

            pertaining to discrimination and harassment.

2. Counseling and advising locals in meetings.

3. Improving the expediting communications in matters

    concerning civil rights.

 

 

 

The human relations committee is composed:

 

1 Chairman      

                             7 Committee members

 

The VPFF Human Relations Committee:  Believes the involvement of persons in the individual’s local is an important component to the success of the VPFF.  All affiliates are urged to utilize the home rule committee.  Complaints of civil rights violations should always be initiated and pursued as often as possible, at the local level.  A grievance procedure should be used to obtain a resolution of the issue.  However, if this type of process is unavailable to a member then assistance should be sought from the member’s local.

 

The human relations committee acknowledges the fact that not all locals have the resources available to them to resolve all acts of discrimination and harassment.  As such, every local has the option of seeking additional assistance from the human relations committee, in the event that the VPFF Human Relations Committee can not come up with a resolve, then they can call on the IAFF Human Relations Committee for advice.

 

 

POLICY ON DISCRIMINATION:

 

This policy is an overall plan that comprises the general goals and acceptable procedures of this committee.  Its purpose is to guide the Executive Board of the VPFF and members in determining their present and future decisions.

 

Any person of good moral character who at the time of making application is engaged in service within the jurisdiction of the State, will be eligible for active membership in the VPFF through its chartered local.

 

Anyone eligible for membership in the VPFF shall not be refused membership or, upon acceptance, be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, and national origin, sex or by reason of disability.

 

It is the obligation and responsibility of all union members to respect these principles and carry them out while performing their duties and responsibilities as members of the fire service. 

 

The human relations committee stands unequivocally opposed to discrimination and harassment in all of its forms and in all types of environments.  Specifically this opposition includes discrimination in hiring, promoting and laying off of employees, as well as in all other employment - related conditions. 

 

The human relations committee believes discrimination and harassment can be stopped in both its open and hidden forms.  This can be accomplished by encouraging all people to live by the basic principle of respect and that every person is entitled to the same basic rights regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, gender or reason of disability.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIRGINIA PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS

I.A.F.F.   AFL-CIO-CLC

 

                                                POLICY                                          

REVISED DATE:

 

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: 

 

SEPTEMBER 1999

                                                                                          

 

ISSUED BY:

 

PRESIDENT MOHLER 

SUBJECT:

 

COMPUTER NETWORK

CHAPTER:

COMMUNICATIONS

SECTION:

 

 

PURPOSE:  To provide a reliable, rapid and convenient way to disseminate information to all VPFF Affiliates.

 

All communications will be phrased appropriately.  Should read as what you would be willing to say in an open business meeting.

 

CAPABILITIES -

A.   Send & receive fax

B.  E-mail

C.  VPFF Web Site

 

 METHODS -

        A.  Send and receive fax - Any VPFF Executive Board Member, Local President, Directors and any member authorized by the President of the VPFF will have access to the network.  All faxes that are to be sent to ALL VPFF Affiliates (i.e. mass faxing) shall be sent to the VPFF Information Network (804) 979-6420 for accountability.  Subject matter may contain legislative matters, local activities, announcements; topics of special interest any related materials.

 

                                                                                                                                                            B.  E-MAIL:  SENDING - This capability will be limited to the network director, system operator, assistant operator or any member appointed by the VPFF.  This limited access will ensure proper handling of E-MAIL.  It will also ensure accountability and responsibility.  This capability will require a secret password; however, any member with his or her own account may send e-mail.  Only the aforementioned may send e-mail from the VPFF account (VPFF e-mail address is:  VPFF@AOL.COM).

 

        RECEIVING - Any member requesting e-mail from the VPFF Information Network may do so via e-mail to the communications directors at which time that member’s address will be added to the dissemination list.  Only subject matter containing legislation, local activities, announcements, topics of special interest and any related materials will be forwarded via the VPFF information network, ABSOLUTELY NO INAPPROPRIATE MATERIALS WILL BE FORWARDED.

 

 

C.   VPFF Web Site:  System Access – The URL for

The web site is: www.vpff.org.  Submissions for posting on the web site should be made in electronic form, (Microsoft Word if possible) utilizing HTML attached to an e-mail bragg@vpff.org (804) 979-7311. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 DISCLOSURE

 

ANY USER, MEMBER OR OTHERWISE, UTILIZING ANY PORTION OF THE VPFF SYSTEM COMPONENTS MENTIONED ABOVE WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR ALL INFORMATION, FILES AND DATA, SENT OR RECEIVED AND WILL BE LIABLE FOR ANY INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR.  ANY MISUSE OF THIS NETWORK WILL RESULT IN LEGAL ACTION BY THE VPFF TO THE FULLEST EXTENT THAT THE LAW WILL ALLOW.  BY UTILIZING ANY PORTION OF THE VPFF SYSTEM, ALL USERS ACKNOWLEDGE AND ACCEPT THIS DISCLOSURE.