Frequently Asked Questions

Below are responses to some of the most common questions about the Summit. Can't find the answer to your question? Contact us!

Q: How far is the hotel from the airport?

A: It's about 15 minutes by car from the airport to the hotel. See the map to the right!

Q: Is there a hotel shuttle available for getting to the hotel from the airport?

a: No, there is not a complimentary hotel shuttle. Visit our Travel page to learn more about ground transportation options, including taxis, ride share, and paid shuttle options.

Q: Where is the hotel located?

The Hyatt Regency Buffalo Hotel and Conference Center is at 2 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14202, in the middle of downtown Buffalo and a short walk from tourist attractions, coffee shops, restaurants, and a free streetcar. View our Travel page for more information.

Q: What amenities does the conference hotel provide?

A: The Sheraton OKC Downtown has a 24-hour gym, swimming pool, business center, and free Wi-Fi. Visit the hotel website for more information. On-site parking for Summit guests is available for a discounted rate of $15/night. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar. Pets are welcome for a fee.

Q: Will there be time to sightsee?

A: The Summit provides an action-packed two days of training and activities. The last event on Friday, June 21, ends at 6pm, and the conference officially ends at 3:30pm on Saturday, June 22. However, many guests decide to come early or stay after the conference for additional sightseeing.

Q: What is there to do in Buffalo?

A: Buffalo is a charming city with history and outdoor attractions. The city features museums, a fireboat, fire museum, and the new Canalside district, and a minor-league baseball team. Find out more on our Travel page.

Q: Is the Summit family-friendly? Can guests attend any sessions/meals at the Summit?

A: Yes! We offer a guest registration for people 12 years and up. This registration includes four breaks, two lunches, and the networking reception for just $49. Children under 12 are free. Visit the Register page for details.

Q: What is there to do in Buffalo for families with kids?

A: Buffalo has a children's museum, minor league baseball team, waterfront boardwalk, and more. Watch this video on Buffalo for families to find out more! View our Travel page for additional info.

Q: I have accessibility needs - will I be able to attend the conference?

A: Yes! The NVFC invites attendees to share any accommodations and accessibility needs in our registration process, including visual, audio, mobility, dietary, and special considerations like private lactation space. The conference hotel includes accessible rooms and meeting spaces. We want to make sure everyone is able to join and have a successful conference! If you have any questions, contact us.

Q: Can my service or therapy dog attend?

A: Certified service animals are welcome based on venue restrictions. Therapy dogs are on a case-by-case basis, depending on individual establishment restrictions.

Q: What's included in the registration fee?

A: We recognize the challenges for many volunteers in attending a national conference like this. We use grant and sponsor funds wherever possible to minimize the cost to attendees, worked with the hotel to offer discounted room rates, and provide meals and amenities whenever possible. The registration fee of $149 includes two days of classroom-based training, daily light breakfast, daily morning break, daily lunch, and Friday evening reception with appetizers and drinks. The Summit is an excellent value.

Q: Is financial assistance available to help me attend the Summit?

A: Yes! The NVFC is able to offer post-conference reimbursements of up to $800 per approved attendee through a stipend program. Visit the Stipends page to learn more and submit an application.

Q: I received a stipend, but I can't attend the Summit anymore. Can I transfer my stipend to another department member?

A: Each stipend recipient is selected by committee review through a nationwide application process. Transfers are not permitted. If the stipend application period is still open, your department member is welcome to apply. 

Q: I can't make the Summit - will there be a way to attend virtually?

While the Summit will not be offered virtually, select courses will become future webinars and trainings in the NVFC Virtual Classroom.

Q: What other training opportunities does the NVFC provide?

A: The NVFC offers many training opportunities, including:

  • In-person: Conferences and workshops by request
  • Virtual Classroom: On-demand courses 
  • Webinars: Monthly+ live virtual learning opportunities
  • Roundtable Talks: Panel discussions on key topics in first response

Find out more about all of these options at www.nvfc.org/trainings. 

Q: Can I submit a presentation or speaker proposal?

A: The call for presentations for the 2024 NVFC Training Summit was completed in late 2023, and the agenda is full. Please stay tuned to our website at www.nvfc.org for future speaking opportunities.

Q: If I register but can't go, can someone else go in my place?

A: Yes! Please just notify the event organizers so we can update the registration record. 

Q: If I register but can't go, can I get a refund?

A: Registration fees are fully refundable until May 31. From June 1-17, half of the fee will be refunded. No refunds after June 18.