Need for the MRC became apparent after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, when thousands of medical and public health professionals, eager to volunteer in support of emergency relief activities found there was no organized approached to channel their efforts. Local responders were already overwhelmed, and could not manage these spontaneous volunteers; so many highly skilled people were turned away. As a result, the MRC was established to provide a way to recruit, train, and activate volunteers interested in helping their communities in time of need.
While a medical or health background is helpful, it is not necessary. Anyone who is interested is encouraged to join- retired professionals, chaplains, law enforcement, people with good computer or organizational skills. The specific role that you will play, and the activities in which you will participate will depend upon your background, interests and skills, as well as the needs of the MRC unit and the community.
We are planning an orientation in June of this year. Interested volunteers should contact Cory McKeown, the MRC Coordinator, at cmckeown@co.pacific.wa.us ; by phone at the Pacific County Health Department Long Beach number 360-642-9349 or toll-free from the Raymond/South Bend area 360-875-9349.