how can i help?

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The AFSC is largely operated by volunteers, so we're always looking for additional help, or people interested in getting involved in some way.  Please see the various options below.  We look forward to welcoming you into the AFSC activities!  You can participate as much or as little as you desire.

If you are interested in participating in the AFSC as a member, it's a very easy process.  All you need to do is show up to two (2) consecutive AFSC meetings, and express your interest to become a member.  We ask that you come to 2 consecutive meetings because it will not only give you a pretty good overview of what the meetings are like, the regular business of the AFSC and how things work in the AFSC, but it will also show the commitment involved.  Of course, the more meetings you attend as a member, the better, as your voice matters and being present helps you to make informed decisions with the other members.  But, that does not mean you must attend every meeting and participate in every program or activity to be a member.  All you need is a vested interest in the fire safety of eastern Alpine County, and a desire to be a part of the process.  When possible, there is a Zoom option to allow members and other interested parties to attend virtually, but we hope to see as many people as possible in person at the meetings.  Please reach out if you are interested in becoming a member, or if you would like more information.

You do not have to be a member to help the AFSC.  Anyone can help at any time as there are various ways the community can take part in the fire safety of eastern Alpine County.

• You can attend meetings and gain information about the various projects in progress around the county
• you can ensure you're doing your part by maintaining defensible space on your property
• You can gather literature available through the AFSC and learn about how to achieve and maintain fire safety.  After all, the more you know, the better!
• You can learn who the current members are and reach out to them specifically with any questions you may have, as this will help in ensuring accurate information is shared with the community
• You can make financial donations to the AFSC by either mailing them to the AFSC at P.O. Box 67, Markleeville, CA. 96120, or delivering them by hand to any of the AFSC members
• You can take part in the Reflective Sign Program and the Greens Waste Voucher Program
• You can learn more about how to make your neighborhood a FireWise community
• You can participate with the FireWise leaders in your neighborhood, or become the leader for your neighborhood.

Perhaps you're not ready to become a member of the AFSC, but you would still like to be involved?  We can always use volunteers!  If interested, please reach out to any of the AFSC members to see if there is something you can do.  Maybe you could help to sell beer at the Death Ride?  Or maybe help to get literature out to the community?  Or maybe you have another idea you could share with us?  After all, 2 heads are better than 1, and 5 heads are better than 2!  Please speak up...we'd love to hear your ideas.

Just like in the days long ago, some of the best communication is "word of mouth".  Please help us to "spread the word" by: 

• Sharing mailings you've received from us with your neighbors
• Encouraging your neighbors and community to maintain their defensible space
• Share the programs, forms, resources and other information from this website with your family, friends and neighbors
• Encourage others to go to AFSC meetings and activities with you...share the experience!

All AFSC meetings are open to the public.  You are more than welcome to just sit in on a meeting.  You don't even have to speak up!  Just be there and listen if that's what you prefer!  We're glad to have you in any manner, as long as you're comfortable.  Even just being there in silence is beneficial to the AFSC because that's one more person who's hearing the message and information.

A FireWise Community is a better-prepared community.  Various neighborhoods around you are working to become FireWise communities.  But, they can certainly use your help!  Please go to the Resource page of this website to learn more about FireWise communities and how you can help.