I am so completely done with landline phones. The useless a-holes are relentless. In the trash with the landline. Blocking doesn't work, they just keep calling from other numbers. To hell with this stupid [***].
I received two calls from this number within 60 seconds. I was on the phone so they called back quickly to catch me but left no message. As noted above, it may be the Virginia State Firefighters Association (VSFA), a real organization. However, it is probably their contract fund raiser. I checked with "Charity Navigator" to get some specifics, and they had a note that the VSFA did not qualify to be rated by their organization. So then I checked with the Better Business Bureau and found the note below.
My recommendation is to just block their number and contribute directly to your local volunteer fire department as I do.
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"This organization has declined to be evaluated in relation to BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. Charity participation in BBB review is voluntary. However, without the requested information, it is not possible to determine whether this charity adheres to all of the BBB Standards for Charity Accountability. The BBB encourages charities to disclose accountability information beyond that typically included in financial statements and government filings, in order to demonstrate transparency and strengthen public trust in the charitable sector."
At first, it sounded automated; then a male voice named Mark, with the VA State Fire Fighters Association came on (still sounded a bit automated). Told him I had already donated through my own organization; he asked for "just" $15. I told him I could not afford that at this time. Promptly blocked all incoming from that number.
Same as above. From VA Firefighters. I asked where he was calling from and he said Culpepper and asked if that was ok. Told him no ad I am S.W. Va and I only donated to locals. Hung up.
I copied the following from the Va. State Fire Assn. website:
" Fund Raising Fraud!"
"We have been made aware of citizens in the Commonwealth being contacted, supposedly, on behalf of VSFA asking for donations. One is by a live person who says they are asking for donations for the widows and orphans of dead firefighters. The other is a robo call using a recorded message.
The VSFA has two companies that work our behalf, Front Line Support and Outreach Calling.They do not use recordings and do not use high pressure tactics or the terminology of widows, orphans or dead firefighters.
If anyone receives any call from anyone other than Front Line or Outreach Calling, please contact the Federal Trade Commission https://www.ftc.gov/ and use reference number 71213013 or call them at 877-382-4357 and provide them information on the call."
As you can see the robo or rude strongarm calls are actually a scam hoping you'll sympathize with widows, orphans and deceased firefighters.
If you feel so inclined you might donate to your LOCAL volunteer fire department, perhaps the one responsible for protecting your home. Even though most counties own the trucks and the station buildings, there are still expenses that we firefighters are responsible for. Most volunteer departments are 501(c)3 registered so your donations are tax exempt. Every little bit helps. Thanks.