Wise County, Virginia

Who we are

V.A.P.O.R., the Virginia Association for Paranormal Origination Research, is based in Wise County in Southwest Virginia.  We are a completely not-for-profit group who attempt to define the causes of suspected or alleged paranormal activity through the scientific means and theories currently available to us.  These include video and audio recordings, photographs, temperature variations, electromagnetic fields, and other means.  While we are based in Wise County, our investigations and excursions take us all around the Southwest Virginia area, including (but not limited to) Wise, Lee, Scott, Russell, Dickenson, Washington, and Buchanan counties.

Who we aren't

We are not "ghost hunters".  While we love the show (and who doesn't?), this term has become loosely attributed to anyone who goes to old houses or graveyards trying to see a ghost.  Sometimes they try to prove the existence through scientific methods, other times they are just there to see what they can see, other times they are there just to spook themselves.  We attempt to initially disprove any so-called paranormal activity by scientific methods.  If any activity is recorded or witnessed, we take the time to logically discern what could have caused the event.  (For example, cold spots could be caused by problems in heating ducts or drafty windows; doors that open on their own could be caused by humidity, etc.).  If an activity cannot be explained or recreated through conventional means, then and only then do we label the event as possible paranormal activity.

We are not "psychics".  While we do not condone or condemn the usage of psychics or mediums during paranormal investigation, their results rely mainly on feelings and ideas which are not scientifically measurable.

Please note that the use of quotation marks does not infer any disdain on these groups - please see our policy regarding other paranormal groups below.

Our mission

To discover, and if needed, uncover, the truth behind so-called paranormal phenomenon by professionally and ethically investigating paranormal events using all scientific methods available to us.

Regarding other paranormal groups

We are extremely open to working with other paranormal groups as well as sharing and exchanging findings and information.  We accept and respect the different approaches and methods that other groups may use, therefore, we refuse to publicly criticize any group or maintain a competitive attitude in working with them.  We understand that no one has all the answers and only by working together will we all be successful.

Confidentiality

Please remember, all investigations are kept confidential; no names, addresses, or images will be used without the expressed consent of all individuals involved.