Outcome: a volunteer first responder service is fully established and permanently integrated into the civil protection system of Armenia countrywide and disaster response in targeted communities improved

Output 1: a conceptual framework for VFRGs in Armenia is developed

Developing a functional structure for Volunteer Fire Rescue Groups (VFRGs) in Armenia, a comprehensive training package for RS trainers (ToT) and volunteers, standards for PPE, fire extinguishing material and equipment, an alert tool application and IEC material for VFRGs.

Output 2: the VFRG model is an integral part of the civil protection system of Armenia

Signing a cooperation agreement between ARCS, MIA and the regional administrations for the countrywide implementation of the VFRG model, developing a road map for rolling out the VFRG model countrywide (including a national funding strategy), promoting the VFRG model established countrywide with national authorities and advocating for adaptation of the legal framework, running active communication and visibility campaign to raise awareness for the Armenian VFRG model

Output 3: the VFRGs are established, operational and well supported countrywide

Establishing 8 new VFRGs and VFR stations and further developing 4 existing VFRGs and VFR stations: signing cooperation agreements with municipalities, refurbishing VFR stations, recruiting, registering, insuring and equipping new volunteers, training all volunteers according to new training curricula, holding RS MIA certification exams, activating new VFRGs officially

Operating 12 VFRGs and VFR stations:VFRGs responding to emergencies, regular activities organized by VFRGs (trainings, exercises), simulation exercises, regular test alerts, exchange between VFRGs (joint exercises, visits), local fund raising and awareness raising activities

Output 4: the local VFRGs are deployable for regional and national disaster response

Developing a procedure for (cross-) regional deployments of VFRGs outside their municipalities in case of larger-scale, local emergencies, developing a procedure for countrywide deployments of VFRGs in case of disasters, integrating the VFRG model into the Disaster Risk Management National Strategy and the Action Plan, participation of VFRGs in regional/national level simulation exercises

Output 5: enhanced integration of gender equality and disability inclusion in the VFRGs of Armenia

Strengthening the inclusion of women and people with disabilities in the VFRGs model and using the VFRGs model to advocate nationwide for the inclusion of women, people with disabilities and older people.