AACVFA Awards Committee, June 27, 2025
I am honored to nominate Joanne Stableford for the Outstanding Member of the Quarter in recognition of her exceptional service to the Riviera Beach Volunteer Fire Company (RBVFC). Joanne's contributions in both administrative and operational capacities exemplify dedication, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to the mission of RBVFC.
Administrative Contributions Joanne has demonstrated outstanding leadership in her administrative roles, significantly enhancing the company's operational efficiency and financial management. As a member of the IT Committee, she successfully led the company’s transition from Microsoft to Google Workspaces, streamlining internal communications and modernizing administrative processes. Joanne continues to serve as the administrator for the company's digital infrastructure, ensuring its effective utilization and operation.
Additionally, Joanne chairs the Cadets Committee, where she initiated the restructuring of the Cadet Program for 2025. Her efforts aim to create clearer training pathways for future first responders, fostering a more substantial pipeline of dedicated volunteers.
Following the unexpected resignation of the previous Treasurer in February, Joanne stepped up and assumed the role with remarkable efficiency. Within her first month, she:
Engaged a professional bookkeeper and established consistent communication with the company auditor to ensure financial compliance. Conducted a comprehensive financial analysis of the past fiscal year and presented her findings to the membership in March, enhancing transparency and fiscal responsibility. Developed and proposed a Financial Authorization and Expenditure Policy to the Board, defining compliance responsibilities and improving financial oversight. Furthermore, Joanne’s expertise in budget analysis and profitability planning has significantly impacted RBVFC’s fundraising strategy. She introduced a fundraising calculator to guide event planning and ensure sustainable financial practices, helping to maximize the impact of volunteer efforts.
Operational Contributions Beyond her administrative responsibilities, Joanne has shown an unwavering commitment to operational excellence. Currently enrolled in EMT training, she has excelled in her coursework, demonstrating both determination and aptitude. She has also established weekly study and practice sessions at the firehouse to support her peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Joanne has begun her student ride-alongs and has already shown professionalism and dedication. During a recent county system outage, she stayed overnight at the firehouse to assist with fire watch operations and ensure crews received timely dispatch information, showcasing her reliability and team spirit. Marine Operations Leadership
Joanne has played a pivotal role in the development of RBVFC’s Marine Operations Program, drawing on her knowledge from her previous service as an Australian Surf Rescuer and Warfare Officer in the Australian Navy.
Her accomplishments include: Creating the Marine Operations Policy Manual to provide comprehensive guidance and structure for the program. Developing the program’s budget and strategic planning documents. Contributing to successful grant writing efforts to secure critical funding for marine operations. Assisting in the planning of RBVFC’s first annual Water Safety Day in April, promoting community engagement and water safety awareness.
Conclusion Joanne Stableford’s relentless dedication, exceptional leadership, and willingness to go above and beyond have left an undeniable mark on RBVFC. Her contributions span every facet of the organization, from enhancing operational capabilities to ensuring sound financial management and promoting community engagement. Joanne embodies the spirit of volunteerism and is a most deserving candidate for the Outstanding Member of the Quarter Award.
Thank you for your consideration of this nomination! David V. Johnson President Riviera Beach VFC |