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Getting Started: Enlisting Champions for Your MRC Unit

In addition to having partners with whom your MRC will work closely, it also helps to have other individuals or organizations in your community support your effort. These individuals and organizations do not need to have any obvious relation to the work your volunteers are performing. They may recognize its value for your community and may want to help it succeed by using their connections or influence to draw positive attention to your work.

Typically, champions for any cause have ties to the larger community or to specific segments from which your MRC may be attempting to solicit support. Often, they are charismatic individuals whose enthusiasm spreads easily to those you may have targeted for outreach. They also may be connected to elected officials, top health administrators, private-sector leaders, or to other groups. Their connections and enthusiasm can improve an MRC unit that is otherwise struggling to advertise.

Government officials also are a good place to seek support. They will have connections with many community organizations and will be tasked with maintaining many of your community’s services and resources. Government officials may recognize the contribution of your MRC to their own objectives, particularly if you can illustrate incidents that have received significant media attention in recent years (e.g., the 2005 hurricanes, 2004 tsunami in Asia, the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak in Canada, or the fires that have so often swept through the western United States). Once you have gained the support of local government officials, you can ask them also to mention the MRC in their speeches and other public appearances.

In addition, corporations and private businesses often have access to resources that can directly benefit your MRC, such as direct funds, in-kind support, media exposure, and particular areas of needed expertise, similar to prominent individuals and community leaders. Enlist their sponsorship—their letters of support also will show funding sources and other potential champions that you are well connected and networked in your community. People are most likely to support causes that demonstrate broad community support and relevance.

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Last Updated on 8/15/2006