Welcome to the OCVFA Youth Programs Page!

The CNY Youth Fire/EMS Weekend was held from July 17-19, 2026 at the Fairmount Training Center in Syracuse, NY. This event, co-sponsored by OCVFA, FASNY, and CNYFA, brought young people, ages 13-18 with different levels of experience, and trainers from around the state together to actively participate in fire and EMS related activities for this three-day event. Junior Firefighters, RAMS, Fire Cadets, and Explorers in full turnout gear trained with ladders, charged hoses, in smoke-filled rooms, and in simulated “hoarders houses.”  Youth were certified in “Stop the Bleed” and fire equipment-related games and relay races allowed everyone, young and old, the opportunity to get to know each other at a deeper level and set the tone for trusting and supporting each other. This weekend event was the first of its kind in NYS and was considered a great success by all who attended from the across the county, region, and state! Way to go, Everyone!!!

Youth from Fire Departments across Onondaga County were well represented at the Old Forge Fire School from September 18- 20, 2026! Young people from Borodino, Fairmount, Howlett-Hill, Mattydale, Verona, and Warners-Memphis attended in force and participated in a variety of classes and activities including push-ball, push-cart, and the weekend’s formal parade. Youth from a few Onondaga County departments teamed up to play the water games and marched together winning them the 1st place trophy for “Best Appearing Youth Group!”  Following the formal events of the day, Borodino hosted a County Youth After-Party supported by OCVFA, which we believe, was the highlight of their day! We are all so proud of these amazing young people and youth mentors!! Congratulations everyone!!