FCAM is looking to help fill vacancies on the LAST program, in the State. The LAST team works locally and in conjunction with the NFFF. Below is a general list of expectations for the coordinator(s) of the state team – several states employ the use of a co-Coordinator system so there is always depth in that position. I have attached a link to the official program brochure that provides more comprehensive information about the teams and their mission. The brochure can be used in conjunction with the information found on their website at https://www.firehero.org/resources/department-resources/programs/local-assistance-state-team/.
The Coordinator of the Local Assistance State Team serve as NFFF’s primary point of contact and ensures the LAST team conducts the following activities:
- Transmit and receive all firefighter fatality notifications in Massachusetts
- Complete and return to NFFF a FF Data Sheet for all reported fatalities
- Coordinate all team activities, including deployment and follow-up
- Select team co-leader and recruit team members with specific subject matter expertise (ie – Honor Guard, Chaplain, Peer Support, PIO, Benefits Specialist)
- Provide funeral/memorial assistance after a death, if requested
- Assist surviving family members and departments with gathering and submitting required documentation for PSOB claim submission, as well as any state or local death benefits processes
- Educate families and departments on NFFF programs
- Participate in bi-monthly meetings (currently virtual) with LAST leadership team and other state representatives
- Participate in yearly, in-person planning and program meetings for the national LAST cohort
- Provide monthly reports related to LAST assistance provided in Massachusetts
- Maintain team rosters and list of state-level resources
- Prior experience with handling an LODD preferred
Please reach out to Fire Chief Scott Carrigan scarrigan@salisburyma.gov if you are interested and/or have any questions.