August 29, 2016
Contact: Doug Bolnick, Public Information Officer, 636-949-7408
ST. CHARLES COUNTY, MO – In times of need, many lend their neighbors a helping hand. In a large-scale disaster or community-wide public health emergency, this helping hand may come through the assistance of a trained team working together. A Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer-based unit formed to assist this coordinated response.
To introduce prospective individuals to the program, discuss various roles in St. Charles County’s Emergency Response Plan and outline training for MRC members, the Department of Public Health will offer an orientation on Tuesday, Sept. 27. The MRC orientation will begin at 5:30 p.m., at the Department of Public Health office (located at 1650 Boones Lick Road in St. Charles). If you are 18 or older and interested in joining the program, please call Public Health Emergency Planner Nick Kohlberg at 636-949-7554 before Friday, Sept. 23, 2016.
Medically trained and non-medical professionals alike can put their knowledge and skill to use in helping the community as a MRC volunteer, performing roles such as:
- Dispensing medication
- Illness investigation
- Logistics
- Financial accountability
- Public information and social media communication
- Mental health and spiritual support
- Transportation
- Pet Sheltering
Through the efforts of its three divisions — Environmental Health and Protection, Health Services and Humane Services — the St. Charles County Department of Public Health provides a wide range of services that enhance the well-being of the community. To learn how the department assists this region or to find out about volunteer opportunities with any of the divisions, visit
www.sccmo.org/PublicHealth or call 636-949-7400.
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