The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) was brought into being by the federal government following the events of September 11th, 2001 in an effort to create a volunteer network of civilians who could be trained to respond to emergencies, thus supporting and augmenting existing official systems of emergency preparedness and response. While the initial idea may have been born from fears of subsequent terrorist attacks, the national MRC network actually focuses more on natural disasters and public health emergencies, scenarios which are much more likely to realistically confront communities across the nation over time.
According to the latest available data, over 150,000 volunteers now staff 727 MRC units across the country. While the majority of MRC volunteers are likely to be nurses, doctors, public health professionals, paramedics, EMTs, and mental health professionals, any interested person who wishes to be a member of an MRC is urged to join an MRC in their area. The efforts undertaken by MRCs necessitate great effort and organization by multiple individuals, and any well-meaning citizen who would like to volunteer is absolutely welcomed with open arms.
MRCs now exist in many states across the country---in small towns, rural areas, college campuses, and major cities---and each MRC decides on what its particular focus will be. With some guidance from local, state and federal public health agencies, MRCs engage in collaborative efforts to shore up existing public health systems, and also assist local Red Cross units when community members are in need. Members undergo trainings in flu pandemic response, natural disaster preparedness, as well as rigorous preparations for creating “mass dispensation sites” in which thousands of individuals could be systematically vaccinated should the need arise (ie: from a smallpox, meningitis or flu outbreak, for instance).
To find an MRC in your area, you can use this interactive map to locate the MRC closest to your hometown. If you are unable to locate an MRC in your region, you can visit the website of Citizen Corps , a parallel organization which often becomes involved in paving the way for the birth of a new MRC in an identified area. You can also contact a state MRC coordinator or regional MRC coordinator for more information.
As someone who has volunteered for my local MRC since its inception in 2004, I have found my involvement both rewarding and professionally interesting, and urge nurses everywhere to become involved in this very worthwhile and timely cause.
