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Organizing an MRC Unit: Volunteer Relations

In small MRC units, all volunteer-related activities likely will be managed by the individual who oversees the external coordination activities and internal organizational tasks. In larger units, these activities may be dispersed among several individuals. Nonetheless, they support the development of the volunteer corps, an important mandate for each MRC unit.

Regarding the importance of volunteers to the MRC, people sometimes think of traditional community service and goodwill. However, the MRC cannot rely solely on the average citizen who wants to volunteer during times of need. The MRC needs specialized volunteers, people with training and commitment, people who can be relied on during emergencies.

Developing an MRC is not as simple as gathering specialized medical and health volunteers and deploying them. Their skill sets must be carefully understood and matched to the various needs that arise in each community. They will likely require additional training and may need to exercise their roles with the MRC unit’s other response partners.

Volunteer relations can involve:

• Recruiting volunteers by advertising in your community and informing prospects of your unit or of the types of skills the community needs. Each public relations or public awareness opportunity—even if intended for other community constituencies—is an opportunity to reach volunteers.
   
• Interviewing and screening volunteers to ensure you have a complete understanding of their skills and credentials and that they understand the facts and risks associated with working as an MRC volunteer.
   
• Training volunteers so they have the skills and information necessary to be effective when working with your local response partners, whether in emergency medicine or in public health.
   
• Retaining volunteers who may need:
  • Debriefing following utilization, particularly if the engagement or emergency was traumatic
  • Activities between engagements to stay connected to the unit, including: specialized training, exercises, public health initiatives, and community preparedness activities
  • Recognition for their contributions 
     
• Advocating for volunteers by being proactive in your community, county, or state concerning increased legal and disability protection for volunteers who assume considerable risk in giving their time and expertise to the community. Other advocacy issues also may arise.

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Last Updated on 8/16/2006