The research problem was that Dryden Township Fire Department has not been successful in retaining trained firefighters and medical first responders over the past five years, causing a declining number of available trained personnel. The purpose of the research was to identify factors contributing to the lack retention of trained and experienced firefighters and medical first responders on Dryden Township Fire Department. This applied research project utilized the descriptive research method. Research procedures explored literature about the following research questions: A) Why do people volunteer? B) Why do volunteers choose to stay or leave? C) What factors influence retention of volunteers? D) What have other fire departments identified as retention factors? A survey was designed and distributed to analyze and rank data responses to what motivates volunteers and what keeps them volunteering. Data from new hire and exit interviews were used to collect additional volunteer motivation and retention factors. The results of the research found individuals choose to volunteer out of personal interest to help provide for the safety of the community. They are motivated to continue volunteering due to their passion for serving and helping the community while enjoying the comradery of the group. Challenging their ability to volunteer were the increased demands placed on them by the organization they support. Recommendations from this research focused on developing leadership and volunteer relationships, reducing unnecessary requirements and public recognition of the volunteers