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Volunteer Spotlight - July 2006

Volunteer:	Amanda Keeler
Nominator:	Alexanne Stone - MRC Coordinator
Unit Contact Information:	Kent County MRC 678 Front Street Avenue NW, Suite 235 Grand Rapids, MI 49504 Phone: (616) 451-8438, Ext. 102 E-mail: astone@kcems.org Web site: www.kentcountymrc.org

MRC Unit Focus

The Kent County MRC unit’s focus is to have a team of healthcare, medical, and non-medical support professionals who are disaster trained to deploy locally, statewide, and nationally.

Volunteer Background Information

Amanda Keeler is in her senior year at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, MI. She will receive her bachelor’s degree in healthcare communications with minors in marketing and public relations in August 2006.

What did the Volunteer do to be in the Spotlight?

As an intern with the Kent County MRC, Ms. Keeler has implemented various ideas to market the MRC to the public. She has coordinated parades and health fairs for the local community and is involved with establishing a schedule of events through the spring of 2007.

When and why did the Volunteer Join the MRC?

Ms. Keeler has been with the Kent County MRC for 2 months. She became involved with the unit on the suggestion of her professor, who was familiar with the Kent County MRC.

What Activities has the Volunteer Been Involved in With the MRC Unit?

Ms. Keeler organized the Lowell Riverwalk Parade, which was held July 8, 2006. She was responsible for planning and creating giveaway items such as band-aid holders, beach balls, and sun-block kits imprinted with the Kent County MRC logo and unit Web site.

In addition, Ms. Keeler coordinated the Kent County MRC unit’s involvement in a health fair, including designing shirts for volunteers and a banner. She is responsible for planning a picnic in August, a parade and golf outings in September, a health fair in October, two blood drives in November, and a holiday party in December.

Ms. Keeler’s experience with the MRC has been rewarding, and she is able to use her academic experience and ideas to support the community through the Kent County MRC. She wishes to continue her involvement with the MRC after her internship ends. Ms. Keeler also will plan an annual health and disaster preparedness awareness fair to increase community awareness and MRC sustainability.

Last Updated on 8/8/2006