February 16, 2023
Volunteers Needed for Skagit County’s Medical Reserve Corps
Skagit County held a kickoff event for its Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) on Wednesday, February 15, at the Skagit County Department of Emergency Management. The event was attended by county staff, emergency partners, and community volunteers. During the event, participants discussed Skagit County’s COVID-19 response, upcoming trainings, and opportunities for getting involved.
“In Skagit County, we really know how to take care of our own,” said Peter Browning, Skagit County Commissioner. “We are a community of hardworking, passionate individuals who continuously rise to the occasion, whether it be flood response, pandemic response, or any other type of emergency situation.”
The Medical Reserve Corps is a national network of more than 200,000 volunteers, organized locally to improve the health and safety of their communities. Volunteers come from all backgrounds, including medical and non-medical, and can assist in a variety of capacities based on the needs of each mission. In Skagit County, MRC volunteers have dedicated hundreds of hours to the county’s pandemic response—from testing, to vaccination, and administrative services.
“Our Medical Reserve Corps volunteers were instrumental during Skagit’s pandemic response,” said County Commissioner Lisa Janicki. “We are so grateful for all those who volunteered their time and skill, many times in rainy cold weather. Your dedication will be remembered.”
Skagit County MRC emergency workers will receive training in preparedness, response, leadership, and community resilience. Volunteers must be able to attend monthly meetings, available in person and/or online. Volunteers must also register through the Department of Emergency Management, which includes completing and passing a criminal background check.
As part of its kickoff, Skagit County’s MRC is excited to announce the launch of its new dedicated website: www.skagitmedicalreservecorps.org. Visitors to the site can sign up to be an MRC emergency worker and can view upcoming training opportunities and community events.
Said Ron Wesen, Board of County Commissioners Chair: “Community safety is our top priority. Our ability to effectively respond to crisis will depend on a community-wide effort. We are looking forward to seeing the great work of our Medical Reserve Corps.”
Are you interested in making a difference in Skagit County and want to know more about MRC? Please contact Rosemary Alpert, Skagit County Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator, at ralpert@co.skagit.wa.us or call Public Health at (360) 416-1500. |
